My father was a radiologist and often quizzed me on the x-rays he would read. I loved baby-sitting, playing with children and sometimes acting like a kid. I excelled at science. All these factors naturally lead me towards becoming a pediatrician. I went to medical school at the University of Vermont and did my pediatric training at Maine Medical Center. I came to the Albany area to complete a fellowship in pediatric infectious disease. During this time, I was able to participate in the care of some very complicated patients. I even had the opportunity to go twice to the Dominican Republic and do some medical mission work with the Plastic Surgeons. It was a fascinating experience and makes me truly appreciate our own medical system, despite its drawbacks. Although Infectious Disease was very interesting and practical, I found myself yearning for the patient continuity and close rapport that comes with private practice.
I joined Delmar Pediatrics in 1996. Since then I have enjoyed providing service to such a wonderful and close knit community, but also watching these infants and young children grow and thrive. I believe strongly in preventative medicine including routine physicals, education of parents and patients, and immunizations. I truly enjoy what I do. Everyday some child makes me laugh and reminds me what life and my job are all about.
I am happily married and have two girls. My experience as a mother has been indispensable as a physician, as I can relate to many of the problems with which my patients and parents are dealing. My first daughter was two months premature and we have dealt with apnea of prematurity, severe gastroesophageal reflux and pyelonephritis (kidney infection). We have also adopted a little girl from China. I am intimately familiar with the anxiety of the entire adoption process. I am pleased to say Gabriella and Asia are both happy and healthy.
Although my family and Pediatrics are my first passions, I keep my hand in many other activities. I enjoy gardening and was pleased to be in the 2006 Bethlehem Garden Tour. I practice what I preach, and stay active going to the gym, and paddleboarding. I have painted 10 of the exam rooms here in the office. I feel I have enjoyed a wonderful professional and personal life. I’d like to end with a quote by Ralph Waldo Emmerson.
The Definition of Success
To laugh often and much; to win the respect of intelligent people and affection of children; to earn the appreciation of honest critics and endure the betrayal of false friends; to appreciate beauty, to find the best in others; to leave the world a bit better, whether by a healthy child, a garden patch or a redeemed social condition; to know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived. This is to have succeeded.