I grew up in southern Louisiana with three siblings. My interest in endocrinology is fueled by my own diagnosis of type 1 diabetes at the age of seven. I particularly like diabetes and adrenal pathologies. I am currently two years post fellowship and started the first general endocrinology clinic for St. Joseph’s/Candler Hospital in Savannah, GA, where I live with my husband and our two precious cats.
What is your favorite Endocrine Society memory?
I particularly like DocMatter. It is so nice to have a place to ask challenging questions to world experts in the field. I like the sense of community and learning from all the great questions and responses.
How has Endocrine Society supported your professional development/career journey?
I virtually attended the last two Endocrine Society meetings, which keeps me informed of current treatments and guidelines. The knowledge shared at these meetings helps me to better care for my patients. The speakers are fantastic, and I very much looking forward to attending in person next year.
What experience led you to the study of the endocrine system?
Since I have had type 1 diabetes for 27 years, it really helps me to relate to my patients. I truly understand what they are going through, from pump malfunctions to CGM troubleshooting to what I call "bad diabetes days". I love being able to teach my patients about ways to improve their diabetes, and sometimes they are hearing this information for the first time, despite having the disease for years. When they come back for a follow up and their HgA1c has improved, I feel so elated and so do they! It really makes up for all the hard days and endless administrative work.
What would you most like to tell yourself at 18?
I would tell my 18-year-old self to not be shy, know your worth, and ask for what you want, even if you're scared the answer will be no. You'll likely be pleasantly surprised.
What is the best thing about what you are working on right now?
I practice in an underserved region where the need for endocrinologists is very high, so I am challenged each day with a wide variety of diseases. I work for a non-profit hospital that is very supportive, and I look forward to seeing our practice grow beyond the Savannah area.
If Endocrine Society could add one benefit, what would it be?
I like how Endocrine Society is constantly providing learning activities and lectures. It would be helpful if the lectures that are given during the weekdays could all be recorded so they can be accessed at a later time. I am interested in a lot of the lectures offered, but I am never able to attend because they are during my clinic hours.
