Q: What makes you feel connected to Susan G. Komen and our mission to end breast cancer?
A: I lost my mother to breast cancer in 1998 when I was just 14 years old. I have been participating in the Susan G. Komen walks ever since. Through the years, it has brought me such joy to see more and more signs for "Survivors" instead of "In Memory Of" indicating just how integral the Komen foundation has been in providing funds for cancer support and research.
Q: What makes you VIPink?
A: My childhood experience drove me to a career in healthcare. I am a physical therapist, but also an oncology specialist and board certified lymphedema therapist. My goal is to improve the health and wellness of cancer patients from point of diagnosis all the way through to survivorship. While I work with all types of cancer, breast cancer patients are very near and dear to my heart.
Q: What will be your competitive edge against your fellow ambassadors?
A: My competitive edge is my enthusiastic, kind, charismatic, soon-to-be 11 year old son, Finn. He has lost two grandmothers to cancer and witnessed a friend his age go through the struggles of fighting cancer as well (thankfully he was successful!). Finn understands the importance of fundraising and shares my passion for finding a cure. He also has no fear of wearing pink because it's his favorite color! He even spray painted his hair pink when attending the Komen walk this past October :)
Q: Give us one fun fact about you
A: Per Finn, my "cooking skills are awesome".