I was attracted to neurosurgery because of the intense patient-doctor relationships that form when the functions that are so vital to our humanity, such as the ability to communicate with a loved one, are at stake. I was fortunate to do my neurosurgical training at the busiest brain tumor center in the country where I also pursued advanced training in minimally invasive techniques. Additionally, I devoted time to specialize in critical care medicine in order to provide more comprehensive care to our sickest patients. I draw upon these experiences to care for patients with brain tumors and those that have suffered severe brain trauma. I take great pride in being a surgeon and work hard to listen to my patients and their families so as a group we can develop a compassionate and evidence-based plan aligned with their goals and wishes. I grew up in a beach community on the South Shore of Long Island in New York but came to Duke University for college when I was 18 years old and never left.