“In high school, I was an overnight caregiver for my neighbor who suffered from Parkinson’s disease, and my interest in medicine and helping people was sparked. While at CSBSJU, I worked for a local optometrist, and saw the importance of yearly eye exams. Not only do we take care of ocular diseases, but the eye gives us great insight into systemic diseases as well. Watching people put on their first pair of glasses and being amazed at what they could see was also a great reward.

My favorite part of being an optometrist is helping patients with their visual issues. So many people don’t realize how many things can stem from vision and ocular issues, and being able to offer solutions is very rewarding. I love being able to create a relationship with my patients that lasts for many years.

I enjoy spending time with my family, playing intramural volleyball, traveling with my husband, and playing with my great pyrenees puppy Lou.”