What is your role at Scottish Rite for Children?
I am a physician assistant in the Neurology department.

What do you do on a daily basis? 
I work primarily in the outpatient neurology and physical medicine & rehabilitation (PM&R) clinics. A typical day is fast paced and consists of evaluating patients, taking a history, doing a thorough neuro exam and ordering all the necessary workup. We also manage any inpatient consults. 

Our department provides care for orthopedic patients with a wide spectrum of related neurologic disorders including cerebral palsy, seizures, headaches and neuromuscular conditions - just to name a few. The neurology advanced practice providers (APP) team works alongside the attending neurologists Dr. Sparagana and Dr. Christie, as well as with our PM&R specialist, Dr. Reyes.

What was your first job? What led you to Scottish Rite? How long have you worked here? 
My first job was as a babysitter for family friends. Early on, I always knew that I wanted to work in the medical field with children. I went to the University of Texas at Austin for my undergraduate studies where I received a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. I then attended UT Southwestern for physician assistant school in Dallas. I loved the flexibility that this profession provided and started working at Scottish Rite a few months after graduating. I was drawn to the mission of the organization and am grateful to be able to serve the community through the work we do in our department. I have now been here six years. Time flies!

What do you enjoy most about Scottish Rite for Children?  
I truly enjoy working with children. No matter what kind of day I am having, they somehow always do or say something to put a smile on my face. I also love working with everyone on the Neurology & Rehabilitation Medicine team. They’re my family away from home!

What’s your favorite place to eat?
Neighborhood Services - try the meatball appetizer with voodoo sauce. You will not be disappointed.  

What’s something—big or small—that you’re really good at?  
I wouldn’t say I am really good at it, but I enjoy making flower arrangements. White roses are my favorite! I find it very therapeutic and flowers always make any room feel complete. I have also been told that I am excellent at organizing things. 

Is there something that has made you smile recently?
Snow in Dallas! Despite all the issues that came with the winter storm, we tried to make the most of it. We enjoyed all of the snowmen in our neighborhood and watching kids sled down the hills at the parks.