I'm very big on patient advocacy. I think patients shouldn't worry about speaking up for themselves. I love to meet new people and invest in others. I got into health care not only to help others but invest in them as well.

When I meet a new patient, I sit down with them and we talk about their expectations - what they're wanting out of a visit, and what I expect from them as a patient as well. We can talk about their medical history, any concerns they have and their goals.

For patients I haven't met yet, I'd like them to know that I've been in health care for 18 years and I have not lost my love for taking care of people. I still learn as much as I can about it every day. Every day is different and exciting and a new chance to help people.

Communication is really important. You have to be able to talk to people. People will trust you if they think you understand where they're coming from. You really have to take the time to listen to people and understand what they want and then be able to say it back to them and establish that relationship.