About Me

I was born and raised in Houston, Texas. Of the many family members who encouraged me in life, my grandfather, a criminal court judge, was my biggest inspiration. I watched him in court and saw his genuine desire to help those who appeared before him. His work ethic inspired me to want to serve others. As far as my education, I have a Master of Science in Health Care Ethics from Creighton University, and I received my Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine at the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine at the University of North Texas Health Science Center. I completed a family medicine internship and residency at the Methodist Charlton Medical Center in Dallas, where I was chief resident. I went on to complete a fellowship at the Sutter Medical Center, Sacramento.

About my practice

I remember how comfortable my pediatrician made me feel when I was ill. During college, I had the opportunity to spend a summer shadowing him and I walked away from that experience knowing I wanted to practice medicine. During residency I came to appreciate the fast pace of hospital care and felt that I could have a positive impact in that environment. As a result, I went on to complete an additional year of training in hospital medicine in Sacramento. I then stayed in California for five years treating patients in the hospital setting before moving to Hawaii.

To stay up-to-date, I read journals and attend medical conferences. My professional associations – the American Osteopathic Association, the American Society for Bioethics and Humanities, the Society of Hospital Medicine, and the Hawaii Association of Osteopathic Physicians & Surgeons – also keep me apprised of the latest developments in their respective fields. I’ve also had the opportunity to present research on preventing congestive heart failure and pneumonia readmissions at the California Association of Health Facilities, and I have discussed advance directives at a meeting of the Sacramento Law Foundation.

I knew from my experience in Northern California that Kaiser Permanente always strives to provide exceptional care and service. When I interviewed with the Hawaii Permanente Medical Group, I found that same collegiality and deep concern for patients.

Being sick, especially in the hospital, is hard for patients and their families, and I feel privileged to be invited into a patient's life at these difficult times and appreciate hearing about their unique perspectives. I hope to use my expertise in helping them make decisions consistent with their values and needs.

How I thrive

It’s important to enjoy your work as well as pursue fulfilling recreational activities and relationships. I love exploring Hawaii, both on land and in the water, so my scuba certification comes in especially handy. I also enjoy reading, particularly on a sandy beach, and have two active dogs that keep me entertained at home.