Where are you from?
I am originally from Anthony in Southern New Mexico, but I have spent the last 8 years in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
Why did you choose UA Family Medicine?
The rural medicine opportunities that South Campus has were IRRESISTABLE! I wanted to work with a diverse patient population not only in remote areas of the state, but in a border town much like the one I grew up in. I am also passionate about learning integrative medicine and bringing this type of holistic care to underserved communities.
What are you most excited about for life in Tucson?
I am excited to make new connections with my colleagues, mentors, and patients!
What are your interests or hobbies outside of Medicine?
I love plant life and hope to grow a proliferative garden (with breaks during the summer of course). I’ll dance to anything, but my favorites are Salsa, Cumbia, and Bachata. I am an avid forager with a special interest in mycology! Lastly, cooking connects me to my cultural roots and making traditional Mexican dishes with plant-based alternatives replenishes my spirit.
What are your professional interests within Medicine?
One of my core values is social justice and I plan on applying it to an upstream model of health care. With the help of UAFM I hope to develop the skills to advocate for my patients inside and outside of the clinic/hospital with the goal of supporting community efforts towards structural changes that address my patient’s social determinants of health.
Favorite way to spend a day off?
Finding my way into nature and engaging all my senses! Another way is meal prepping and finding a new vegetable or tea concoction to ferment.
Top item on your "Bucket list"?
Going on an EPIC mushroom hunt traveling to find chanterelles, morels, lion’s mane, chaga, reishi, and many more!