Associate Program Director, General Surgery Residency Program and Medical Director, Pediatric General Surgery, Quality and Research

I perform general and thoracic surgery on babies and children, with a specific focus on minimally invasive approaches and techniques, including robotic surgery. My expertise includes surgical treatment for many congenital anomalies – from intestinal problems and abdominal wall and lung abnormalities to hernias, breast masses and appendicitis. I also treat children with cancer and those who have suffered trauma.

I love helping my patients through my clinical work and enjoy the relationships I develop with them and their families. I pride myself on being honest, approachable and invested in the care and well-being of my patients. I also enjoy working to improve patient outcomes through research and initiatives to optimize the quality of care delivered at the children’s hospital and throughout the healthcare system. Knowing that you can impact someone’s life through dedication, hard work and good judgment is the best part of being a doctor. There’s nothing more rewarding than making a sick child well again so they can resume a normal life.  

The strength and dedication of my patients and their families inspires me. Children have a wonderful way of wanting to get well and be able to play again or resume their normal activities. Their drive helps me do my best to provide them with that opportunity.

When I’m not at work, I enjoy spending time with my husband and my daughters. I am an avid reader, pilates enthusiast, and enjoy bike riding with my family.

• Joe DiMaggio Children's Hospital
• Memorial Hospital Miramar
• Memorial Hospital West
• Memorial Regional Hospital