I’ve always considered myself a long-term advocate of the underdog and from an early age I developed strong bonds with the animals around me. I particularly loved amphibians, reptiles, fish, horses and rodents. I raised bullfrog tadpoles, caught lizards, rode my neighbors horses, saved every penny to purchase goldfish and even came home one day on my bike with a backpack full of rats. Animals offered me adventure, independence, solace and friendship.

Amidst the tumults of adolescence, I was very lucky to be introduced to the miraculous benefits of yoga and meditation. I attribute the discipline of mindfulness that they teach to have broken my fall in life a number of times. They empower me and give me strength and purpose. It is my mission in life to cultivate compassion for myself and all other living beings. I believe that everyone deserves respect, a chance to be heard and an opportunity to learn. ER/urgent care and anesthesia are awesome and humbling opportunities to practice conscious breathing, self-awareness and to appreciate the thrills and challenges of amazing teamwork! I share my life with my incredible husband whom I love so very much, and our wonderful furred and scaled friends.

1. Favorite animal: pygmy possum
2. Veterinary superpowers: intubations and arterial lines
3. Best food: vegetable biryani, chai and green juice!
4. Core values: honesty, respect and humor