What is your role at the hospital? What do you do on a daily basis? 
I am a pediatric nurse practitioner in the Rheumatology department. We take care of children with a variety of rheumatic conditions, the most common being juvenile arthritis. I evaluate patients in clinic, provide patient/family education and help manage their treatments. I also do joint injections, some under ultrasound guidance.
 
What do you enjoy most about Scottish Rite for Children?
I love the collaborative, multidisciplinary care we are able to provide our patients and families. We treat children with very complex chronic conditions. Our team is very fortunate to have access to those services that help us provide the comprehensive care they need. We are so grateful for all the talented professionals here at the hospital, including nurses, physical therapists, occupational therapists, dieticians, radiologists, pharmacists, psychologists, child life specialists, social workers and many more. 
 
What was your first job? What path did you take to get here? How long have you worked here?
After college, I worked in research. I then went back to school to get my nursing degrees. After moving to Texas and working for a short time as a pediatric nurse practitioner at another facility, I was lucky enough to learn about some opportunities here at the hospital while attending a nursing job fair. I have been here for 16 years in the same position. I love what I do, I love the patients and families I care for and I love the rheumatology team.
 
What’s the coolest or most interesting thing you’re working on right now?
I recently completed several training programs in musculoskeletal ultrasound and obtained certification through the American College of Rheumatology. I am a member of the Musculoskeletal Ultrasound Working Group for the Childhood Arthritis and Rheumatology Research Alliance where I am collaborating with an extremely talented group of pediatric rheumatology providers from across the United States and Canada.
 
What are you currently watching on Netflix?
I don’t really watch a lot of television. However, my 10-year-old son is currently binge-watching old episodes of Jeopardy. Thanks to him, their theme song is constantly playing in my head.
 
Who would you most like to swap places with for a day?
I would love to be a drummer in a rock band, even though I have no idea how to play drums. I suspect it is much harder than it looks!
 
What is a fun or interesting fact about your hometown?
I grew up in a very small town in Pennsylvania. They still have a main street with many local owned businesses. 

What is your favorite thing to do when you’re not working? 
Over the last year, I have been volunteering at our local animal shelter with my 14-year-old daughter. I enjoy giving some love to these animals that desperately need it and seeing my daughter develop a volunteering spirit.