About Me

I was born and raised in San Diego, California. Growing up, my parents provided the example of hard work, integrity and respect. I worked my way through schooling and training. I navigated different interests and career fields but settled on medicine because it provides the opportunity and privilege to make an impact on someone's life through health. I completed my undergraduate studies at the University of California, San Diego, where I received a Bachelor of Science in physiology and neuroscience and a Bachelor of Arts in anthropology with a concentration in archaeology. I briefly worked in salvage archaeology, primarily recovering Native American artifacts, and as a basic science researcher prior to earning my medical degree from the UCSD School of Medicine. I enjoyed serving my community and stayed at UCSD for internal medicine residency. I completed my gastroenterology fellowship training at the University of New Mexico, where I enjoyed serving both an urban and rural population, with an emphasis on caring for patients with liver disease.

About my practice

Gastroenterology provides an engaging and fulfilling mix of medicine. I perform procedures that provide a diagnosis and/or treatment. I work as part of a team, which provides ongoing learning and teaching opportunities and enriches patient care. I also build trust with patients and bridge potentially sensitive topics that may otherwise lead them to forego care. With each patient, I try to keep in mind the wisdom of philosopher Will Durant, “We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.” I am honored to work with adults requiring evaluation of gastrointestinal diseases and I perform general gastroenterology procedures including upper endoscopy and colonoscopy.

How I thrive

I love exploring new hiking trails with my Siberian Husky. I enjoy driving and taking road trips with my family that include stopping at local points of interest. I still love reading about history and archaeology. I previously worked as a docent in several museums and enjoy visiting both art and history museums.