About Me
My passion for surgery started at an early age as it combines my love of science, art and interacting with people. The privilege of being able to help my patients both in the medical office and operating room is the most rewarding part of medicine for me. I treat each child as if they were my own. I am a Florida native, and I grew up in North Florida. I love spending time with my very large family and friends. I am a proud mother of 2 active boys. We spend our time together on the water, bike riding, playing tennis, ATV riding and playing video games. I love video games! One of the reasons I work with kids- I get to keep up with all the cool games, new apps and devices.
About my practice
I am a pediatric ear, nose and throat (ENT) doctor (also known as a pediatric Otolaryngologist). I provide care for general and complex ear, nose and throat conditions.
I believe doctor-patient relationships are key to providing quality health care. I strive to build strong relationships with each of my patients by providing individualized care and education, so you are well-informed about your child’s health.
From 2013-2020 I was the Director of the Aerodigestive program at Nemours Children’s Health. I founded this team to provide care using a multidisciplinary approach. I learned from my time in pediatric fellowship at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital that this type of care is critical to medically complex patients. As director of the team, I focused on patient centered care. I helped coordinate a multidisciplinary group to help children with medically complicated airway and swallowing issues.
I have also been part of the Snyder Family Cleft & Craniofacial Center at Wolfson Children’s Hospital for many years. I love to watch the children and families grow over the years.
In 2021 I joined Dr Simonsen and Dr Maddern
My focus is pediatric laryngology (airway, swallowing and voice disorders), including care of children with tracheostomy tubes, airway stenosis or tracheobronchomalacia. I also specialize in treatment of voice disorders including vocal fold paresis and dysphonia.
I also provide surgical care for patients with Chronic Sinusitis, Cystic fibrosis and ciliary disorders.
Taking care of medically complex populations is my passion.
My training, certifications & licensing
Medical school
University of Florida, College of Medicine 2002-2006
Board certification
Otolaryngology
American Board of Otolaryngology 2013
Medical training
Internship
Surgery, General
Hennepin County Medical Center 2006-2007
Minneapolis , MN
Residency
Otolaryngology
University of Minnesota 2007-2011
Minneapolis , MN
Fellowship
Cincinnati Childrens Hospital 2011-2013
Cincinnati, OH