I chose to become a family physician because of my love of science and the influence of my parents who were in service professions-my father, a minister and my mother, an educator. I believe the physician-patient relationship is an active one where I diagnose, educate and treat, but where the patient also contributes to the process by taking responsibility and action to attain their best mental and physical health. My areas of practice interest include wellness and preventive medicine, chronic disease management, and women's health. Outside of work, I enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, birding and biking. I also enjoy family time, reading, gardening and cooking.