Q & A

Q: Why did you become a doctor/reproductive endocrinologist?

A: In medical school I developed a deep passion for caring for women through their unique reproductive life stage, which can bring transformative changes as well as potential challenges. I am grateful for the privilege of journeying with my patients through the difficulties of infertility to assist them in building a family. I also continue to be fascinated by the fearful and wonderful processes of reproductive biology and love being part of such an exciting medical community.

Q: Who inspires you?

A: My father has always been an inspiration to me. He is an incredibly hard worker who cares deeply about the people around him. He grew up in the city yet always had a desire to farm, so after serving in the U.S. Navy, he pursued his dream, buying a farm and learning a whole new way of life. Knowing that he had chosen to do something he loved and that he had the courage to try something new has always been a motivation for me to pursue my dreams.

Q: What are your hobbies and why do you enjoy them?

A: I love spending time with my family doing outdoor activities, such as bike-riding, hiking, exploring local parks and sailing. Spending time in nature always invigorates and restores me, and it provides sweet moments for conversation and bonding with my husband and children.

Q: What is something about you that would surprise most people?

A: Not sure this comes as a surprise once you get to know me, but I grew up on a farm in the Midwest. It was a pretty idyllic childhood – I traipsed through the fields and woods with my brothers, had regular bonfires, drove tractors, fed cows and chickens, and I don’t even flinch when I see a mouse.

Q: What about SGF makes you the most proud?

A: I am incredibly proud to be part of a team that approaches patient care and medical systems with thought and attention to provide the best patient care possible. I feel privileged to work at a place where we all have the same goal of helping patients through the often difficult journey of infertility and playing such an integral role in helping individuals and couples realize their dream of a family. Having worked so arduously to advocate for IVF benefits for military families throughout my career, I have also long admired the work that Shady Grove Fertility has done to advance this cause.

Q: What’s on your bucket list?

A: I’m not sure I have a bucket list – I just love everyday adventure and spontaneity. I’m at a point in my life where I am striving to savor the moment, to live in the present, and be grateful for what it holds. That being said, I wouldn’t say no to sailing in the Caribbean or taking a painting class or summering in the French countryside.

Q: Describe a time when you were inspired by a patient.

A: I was inspired by a dear family I treated while at Walter Reed who were facing infertility due to both severe endometriosis with poor response to IVF and a history of brain cancer. Despite these significant trials to their marriage and family, they consistently approached every aspect of life with love, joy, and a positive attitude.

Q: What is your approach to helping patients who are struggling?

A: I desire to approach each patient with caring empathy for their individual situation and the impact to their life that their struggle with infertility brings. It’s an honor to partner with patients through their journey, to care for them through their reproductive obstacles and joys, and to help each patient choose the best approach to building their family.

Q: How would you describe your personality?

A: I think most people would say that I am energetic and engaged. I hope they would also say that I am caring and empathetic. I value hard work and honesty and am dedicated to my faith and my family.