My fascination with medicine took root during my later years after engaging in volunteer work with traumatic brain injury patients in Toronto. Hearing their incredible stories, I came to recognize the profound privilege held by doctors who catch glimpses of the most sensitive moments in their patients' lives. It became clear to me that as a physician, I could truly make a significant impact. As a resident, my attention was captured by the challenge of hydrocephalus and abnormalities of cerebrospinal fluid flow, areas in which our understanding remains poor and treatment options are limited. Moreover, treatment typically involves the placement of a shunt to redirect fluid away from the brain, a procedure which has a high rate of complications. As a neurosurgeon and scientist, my goal is to discover alternate approaches for diagnosing and treating patients with cerebrospinal fluid disorders, so that they can maintain a high quality of life. Beyond my professional pursuits, I enjoy spending time with my husband, exploring the North Carolina mountains through invigorating hikes, reading a book by the lake, or tinkering with my car.
LGBTQ+ Identified or Ally
Hydrocephalus, a remarkably prevalent yet underappreciated condition, arises from an accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid within the brain. It intersects with all domains of neurosurgery, commonly manifesting as chronic headaches or impaired mobility. My research focuses on understanding the mechanisms by which cells in the brain respond to changes in pressure and how this leads to an accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid. The ultimate goal of this research is to pioneer alternative and minimally invasive strategies for treating cerebrospinal fluid disorders.
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