I chose to become a doctor because it was my dream since childhood. I love being a pediatrician because I love children! Watching them grow and develop from birth to young adulthood is amazing, and it is my pleasure and privilege to be part of helping them learn how to be healthy as they grow. I am a strong believer in the power of healthy lifestyle choices, including sleep, nutrition, physical activity, and connection to nature for the development of healthy bodies and minds. I avoid prescribing medications whenever it is possible to treat a condition with education, reassurance and time. I use evidence-based medicine to help patients and parents consider the risks and benefits of choosing specific therapies or watchful waiting. I am a passionate advocate for vaccines and feel strongly that every child should receive the recommended vaccines on the recommended schedule at every opportunity. Outside of work, I spend my time with my family. We love to travel, hike, camp, play games, read and make music. We spend as much time as we can outdoors and enjoy cheering for the Tarheels! Our kids can be found playing Y sports, singing in the church choir, playing fiddle or guitar, volunteering with scouts, or constructing their own inventions in their "workshop.