What is your specialty?
Rheumatology
Why did you choose your specialty?
Have you ever felt you were inherently good at something? From my very first interaction with my first rheumatology patient, that is how I felt. To this day, I still take care of her from my time at Earl K. Long Hospital in 1999. I diagnosed her with systemic lupus when she was in her 20s. Also, it was the dawn of biologics such as Enbrel and Remicade. For the first time in history, we were going to be able to offer patients with rheumatoid arthritis something other than gold and steroids. It was a total game changer.
What do you like most about being a doctor?
I like the detective work and the problem-solving aspect of diagnosing a patient.
If you weren’t a doctor, what would you do?
If I wasn’t a doctor, I would be mixed media artist or concierge luxury itinerary curator.
How do you ensure your patients feel heard during their visit?
Observing without judgement.
What is something that people may be surprised to know about you?
I am trilingual and did not speak English until I was 13 years old when I moved to the USA. I grew up on food stamps, in government housing, and had need-based scholarships. I did not become a US citizen until my third year in medical school when I was urged by my mentor.
Why did you choose Our Lady of the Lake Physician Group?
Our group is a physician-led organization and I have great respect for my physician leaders, most of whom I have had a history with since residency. My views best align with their vision and mission. Also, in the male-dominated field of medicine, it is wonderful the Sisters have always chosen to empower women leaders.
