What would you like to share about your work and interest in the field of asthma?
I have been a registered nurse working at Lurie Children's (Children's Memorial) for 27 years, caring for children with respiratory illness/disease. I have found my passion is caring for children with asthma. In 2007, I transitioned to the Asthma educator, providing program, care management, and education for the inpatient asthma population. I enjoy partnering with patients and their caregivers in learning asthma care and control to prevent future asthma emergencies. In this role, I have been able to collaborate with peers to advance asthma awareness and clinical care through advocacy, research, and community engagement.

Why do you find CAC beneficial (to you, your organization, your community)?
I have volunteered with the CAC for many years. I have found that being involved and working on the CAC committees provided the opportunity to advocate for the needs and address the barriers that I see in caring for patients during severe exacerbations. I have been able to shape the conversations for future work based on my clinical experiences and by sharing parent/caregiver insight and feedback. The CAC brings together those that share the common goal of asthma awareness and advocacy. There are many opportunities within the CAC to volunteer your time, passion and commitment to asthma awareness and care within the community we love and serve.

What can you offer other members (information, resources, peer support, mentorship, etc)?
I have experience with patient education and asthma resources. Research and development of asthma scoring tool and clinical care guideline. Nursing professional development and mentorship.