In early 2013, I became responsible for the care of an elderly aunt who was being financially exploited by a friend. My aunt had multiple medical issues including Alzheimer's disease. I learned firsthand the challenges of navigating the healthcare system, Medicare- Parts A, B and D- the insurance maze and eventually Medicaid, working with an elder law attorney, being a caregiver while working full time and so much more. I believe this time with my aunt was invaluable to my work as a patient advocate in helping others.



In 2017, I underwent a routine mammogram and was told I had an abnormal cluster of calcifications in my breast which required a core biopsy. The biopsy results revealed atypical cells that would require an excisional biopsy. Despite asking lots of questions and carefully considering my options, I found myself returning for yet another visit with the surgical oncologist after two surgeries for breast cancer, and later underwent a mastectomy with lymph node dissection. Despite being given a cancer diagnosis, I found I still had to really advocate for myself. I was so very thankful that I had the experience and knowledge to know how to advocate for myself, and believe this experience will allow me to help others in my practice.