Growing up, I always loved masterminding experiments. Whether trying a new recipe or making a volcano in the back yard, I was constantly curious about how things work. Once we started doing experiments in chemistry class, I was hooked. \n In school, when we got to lessons on the human body, I knew I had found my passion. At that early age, I realized I could help people by applying my love for science to treating illnesses. \n When I watched a good friend struggle with her sickle cell disease throughout middle and high school, I became interested in hematology. I knew I wanted to try to help alleviate people's suffering. \n I have worked in pediatrics since 2003 and am certified in hemostasis nursing. My goal is to create individualized care plans for every patient. No hematology disorder is one size fits all, so I need the full picture of every patient to treat them properly. I listen to patients and their families and then work with them to create a plan that will most benefit the patient. \n I am a native Charlottean; some people call us unicorns. My husband and I first met on a beach trip when we were 14 years old. Our best friends are siblings, and they each brought us on the trip with their family that year. We grew up all together and began dating when we were 21. We have a son, as well as two rescue dogs and a rescue cat who we consider part of the family. \n When not working, I am often at the baseball field. Our son is a travel baseball player, so that keeps us very busy. I'm lucky to have my family nearby and spend a lot of time with them, as well. My hobbies include reading, cooking and swimming. \n I am a huge fan of our local sports teams in Charlotte. I frequently go to Panthers, Knights and Hornets games. And if I'm lucky, I get to see the Atlanta Braves play a few times a year.