When did you start working at UTMB?
January 2021
Why did you decide to go into burn care?
I was very excited and passionate about being able to care for burn patients who had suffered from horrific accidents, and all of their care was provided in the same unit. This provides a unique opportunity in the hospital setting, where patients from other specialties could be moved several times before discharge. Burn patients receive care from the most acute and critical phase through the rehab phase until discharge on the same unit, with the same care team throughout.
What characteristics do you feel are important for someone in your role?
It is very important for someone in my role to be empathetic and able to listen. Sometimes, hearing the stories of our patients' lives before whatever event precipitated them being on the burn unit can allow you and your patient to identify ways to push past the pain and major life changes to put them on the road to recovery.
What is the best thing about your job?
The absolute best thing about my job is when a patient has suffered, persevered and pushed through the process of burn injury, hasn't quit throughout it all and can walk themselves off the unit and out the hospital's front door.
What is the most challenging thing about your job?
Being able to show up to work daily and know the amount of suffering and trauma you are going to witness while still being able to be your patient's biggest cheerleader and advocate to ensure the best care for the patient.
Describe your life in six words.
Hectic, adventurous, colorful, beach, sun, busy
Whst are three words that describe you
Tall, OCD, smart
What is your favorite:
- Book: The Green Mile
- Color: Blue
- Movie: Coco
- Food: I like food.
- Song: Born on The Bayou
What is the coolest thing (or a fun fact) about you?