Age:
42
IG: nplace123
Website:
City of Residence:
Chandler
Please describe your occupation:
I am a Naturopathic Doctor. We are leaders in Integrative Medicine. We blend the best of modern medical science with traditional, natural approaches to not only treat but restore health and maintain optimal wellness.
Why did you go into that industry?
I initially became interested in medicine to empower myself. I did not have good experiences with doctors growing up. I wanted to have the knowledge to make my own medical decisions and do what is best for me, as an individual. Before long, I developed a strong desire to empower the people around me too, such as my family, friends, and clients.
It is my opinion that Americans are grossly overfed and highly undernourished. In this country, we have sick care, not health care. Meaning when you get sick, you can get care.
There is little to no emphasis on wellness and prevention. Because we are a complex network of interrelated systems, not just a symptom or sum of symptoms, we need custom-designed treatment protocols to address the multi-facets of our entire being.
Unlike allopathic medicine, naturopathic medicine strongly emphasizes diet and lifestyle as keystones to vitality and longevity. We work alongside our patients to identify and eradicate obstacles to cure and allow patients to have an active role in their healing. Education and open discussion are highly emphasized.
What made you want to be a part of Arizona Foothills Magazine’s Most Eligible Phoenicians 2021?
I like to network with people in my community. Also, I really wanted to go to the mixer.
Are you an Arizona native? If not, when and why did you move to Arizona?
I grew up in rural Maryland in a town of fewer than 800 people. As a kid, I rode horses and dreamt of living in a big, exciting city with lots of art and culture. I moved to AZ in 2012 to pursue my medical doctorate.
What is your favorite aspect of Arizona?
Definitely the sunshine. Also the heat, even in summertime!
Have you ever been married in the past? Would you want to get married/remarried?
In middle school, I asked a boy in shop class to marry me with a folded dollar bill ring. He said yes; does that count?
A long time ago used to believe that marriage was not out of love, but instead out of fear- fear that the other person may not always be by your side. Over the years that belief has faded, and my own parents have been together for 50 years.
Now I am open to marriage as long as it’s not over false pretenses.
Do you have any children? Would you like to have children?
I have one child who is the brightest light in my life.
What’s your astrological sign?
Sun in Taurus, Moon in Scorpio, Gemini Rising. Year of the horse.
Would you describe yourself as more of an extrovert or introvert? Or a little bit of both?
Extrovert. However, I definitely enjoy solitude.
You have the weekend off, and no work needs to be done. What are you doing?
Before I became a doctor, I was a ballet dancer and actress. I love performing, everything from the sets, costumes, audience, backstage shenanigans, cast, and crew. When I have time off, you will find me in a dance class or going to a show. I often sing in the car when driving.
Where was your favorite place you have ever visited? Where do you want to go next?
This is a multi-faceted question. My favorite place for natural beauty is Maui. But for fun and excitement: New York City. Next, I’d love to visit Italy and Croatia.
Favorite movie? Why?
Joe Dirt. It’s a funny, feel-good film. The main character keeps a positive attitude even though he’s been dealt a bad hand. His parents abandoned him as a child, he has no home, no friends, and everyone he meets intentionally makes fun of him.
In the end, he gets the girl because she chooses him. This is because he remains positive and true to himself even though he has nothing. We can all learn from this. “Life’s a garden, dig it.”
What kind of music is your favorite? Do you have a favorite artist?
Honestly, I like all genres. New-school Reggae is probably my latest love. Collie Buddz
Favorite food and favorite restaurant? Why?
Dessert. Chocolate increases serotonin and dopamine in the brain which makes you feel amazing. Only one life to live so I aim to keep mine sweet. Favorite lunch spot: Café Forte in Old Town Scottsdale. The lamb burger is noteworthy.
Where is your favorite place to grab a cocktail?
Somewhere relaxing outdoors sans loud music so I can have a great conversation.
If you were to take another MEP selectee on a date, where would you take them and why?
An art museum, then out to eat, followed by a show. Not necessarily in that order.
Tell us something that many people may not know about you:
I have a B.A. in visual art and enjoy working with my hands making things. As a pastime, I design and create clothing and jewelry.
