About Me

I was born in Los Angeles and grew up the U.S. and the Philippines. My parents always encouraged me to give back, and this led me to participate in numerous volunteer missions in the Philippines, Vietnam, Mexico, and the U.S. I graduated from the University of California, Irvine with a double major in biology and psychology and later earned my Master of Physician Assistant at Samuel Merritt University in Oakland, California. My love of island life and outdoor activities brought me to Hawaii.

About my practice

I began my career as an intern investigating brain activity in monkeys and guinea pigs, and my research was published both in the U.S. and abroad. When my mother, a registered nurse, encouraged me to pursue a medical career, I realized that direct patient care would be more satisfying than research. After getting my physician assistant (PA) degree, I worked in emergency departments at several Southern California hospitals before moving to Hawaii. Working at Kaiser Permanente Moanalua as a primary care PA allows me to have the close patient relationships I so enjoy.

To stay up-to-date in my field, I read journals, attend professional conferences, and discuss medical developments with peers. I’m also a member of the Hawaii Academy of Physician Assistants and the American Academy of Physician Assistants, two educational professional organizations that give me access to the latest information.

I was delighted to join the Hawaii Permanente Medical Group because it provides high-quality health care in a place where I've always wanted to live.

My philosophy of care is to promote a healthy lifestyle and disease prevention to well patients and to provide quality, comprehensive health care to those who are ill. I value open communication with my patients, and I strive to address their problems with compassion and respect.

How I thrive

To balance my work and personal life, I exercise, eat a healthy diet, sleep well, meditate, go to church, and try to maintain harmonious relationships with significant others. I love hiking, dancing, and sailing with my fiancé, a corporate jet pilot. On my days off I’m known to take my camera airborne in a Cessna 172 to photograph the beautiful scenery of Hawaii—from the cliffs and waterfalls on the Na Pali coast to the lava fields on the Big Island. Having enjoyable hobbies, keeping my home clean and organized, and indulging in occasional pampering also help me to relax and recharge.