What is your job title/your role at Scottish Rite?
I am a pediatric orthotist and prosthetist, which means I am basically part engineer, part problem solver and part cheerleader for children who are learning to move in new ways.
What is the most fulfilling part of your job?
I enjoy helping children gain their independence and confidence with their new devices. There is nothing like seeing a child take off running in their new orthosis or prosthesis.
What makes Scottish Rite a special place to you?
Scottish Rite feels like a family. Everyone is focused on taking care of the children first, and that energy is contagious. Plus, it is one of the few places where collaboration across so many different specialties happens every day under the same roof.
What made you choose a career in health care?
I chose Orthotics & Prosthetics because I wanted to design devices for patients directly without having to be in a research lab or behind a machine. Also, I like getting to know people, learn their stories and have a good laugh with anyone who comes by.
What is something unique you get to do in your position?
Recently, I have tried to blend high-tech tools, like 3D printing and AI, with old school craftmanship to create customized devices. In our department, we are trying to figure out how we can best serve our patients daily. To do that requires a bit of engineering, artistry and detective work.
What’s your favorite thing to do outside of work?
I like to watch all the New York sports (#Let’sGoMets, #Let’sGoJets, #Let’sGoKnicks and #Let’sGoIslanders). I also like to hit the gym, tinker with my 3D printer and find the coolest spots to hang out with my friends.
Do you have any hidden talents?
In high school, my family guilted me into joining a pipe band. I really wanted to play the drums, but they only had spots left for bagpipe players. I learned how to play the bagpipes, and I must admit that it was pretty cool. We marched down 5th Avenue every year, depending on the weather.
Where are you from, and what brought you to DFW?
I am originally from Long Island, New York, which is right outside of Queens, New York. I initially came to Texas to run away from the snow and freezing winters, but it seems like that weather has followed me here. I chose to stay in DFW because of the awesome people I have met and the great community around me.
If you could travel to anywhere in the world, where would you go and why?
Anywhere with a beach would make me happy.
If you had to pick one meal to eat for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Pizza from Umberto’s of New Hyde Park, New York. No, Chicago pizza is not a real pizza.
What movie do you think everyone should watch at least once?
This is not a movie, but “Ted Lasso” is a definite must-see for everyone.
What is the first concert you attended?
My first concert was U2. The best concerts I have ever gone to are a three-way tie between Luke Combs, Zach Bryan or Taylor Swift.
If you were to have a movie based on your life, which actress/actor would you choose to play your character?
I would pick Chris Pratt. He is goofy enough, but he can still pull off serious moments.
What is some advice you would give your younger self, OR what’s the best piece of advice you’ve received?
“Don’t overcomplicate the small stuff,” says Dwight Putnam, who is my great mentor, friend and brother.
