Life’s mission: To make an impact upon this world, and always live with purpose. I believe that those who live their lives with true purpose find true satisfaction and contentment in life.

Work: Registered nurse (RN, BSN). I am currently working on my master’s and doctorate to become a family nurse practitioner.

Proudest Achievements: Raising my beautiful daughter and going to college at middle age to accomplish my educational goals.  

Expectations for the Future: To become a compassionate and exceptional nurse practitioner who always remembers the importance of treating the person as a whole, and to always remember to listen.

Favorite APP: Fit Bit is my new-found love. It allows me to challenge myself with activity (steps), and to track my sleep quality.

Favorite websites: Amazon.com is my favorite for shopping, Facebook for keeping in touch with family and friends, Swedenborg.com for spiritual talks, and nderf.org for near-death experience stories. I am fascinated by reading about people’s spiritual experiences from all walks of life.

Local causes supported: I donate frequently to Second Act, who help shelter battered women and children, and to Gulf Coast Humane Society.
Favorite thing about Natural Awakenings: I love to read and learn about naturopathic practitioners in our community and the diversity of holistic care available.

Most frequented healthy food restaurant: I prefer to make my own healthy food at home.

How you invest in your community: Every day I go to work as a nurse, I invest in my community through caring, compassion and love for my patients. I also spend time as a thyroid patient educator. As a Hashimoto thyroid patient myself, I can give firsthand information on thyroid health and treatments, as well as the importance of integrating naturopathic and holistic care within your lifestyle.  

Favorite quote: It is what it is, and everything has a purpose.

What you are doing to be the change you want to see in the world: I am making life changes and becoming a nurse practitioner to be able to make an impact upon this world. My goal is to give back, starting within my own community. I think the most important thing we can do as healthcare practitioners is to teach and encourage others to take responsibility for their own health. This starts with prevention such as healthy lifestyles, education and integrating natural health into daily life.