What led you to a career in health care and your position with the Pediatric Transplant Center?
My dad was a successful kidney transplant patient. I previously served six years as a transplant financial coordinator at Brigham and Women’s Hospital. I left for a year and worked with government health programs but missed the patient interaction. Someone told me about the position at Boston Children’s, and I felt that it was a great fit for me.
What do you like most about your job?
Helping children and families navigate insurance benefits and other resources. Health care billing can be difficult to understand, or at times may affect a family’s care decisions. Our patients and families can achieve a more favorable outcome if we help keep them informed.
What do you feel is the most challenging part of your job?
It is always challenging when the answers and resources available are not optimal for our patients and families. That is when I go on the search for more resources and better answers.
Have you always lived in Boston?
No, I was actually born in Spain. My family moved to Boston when I was a baby.
Tell us about your family:
I am married with four children: An’Jalique (21), Myles (18) Destiny (14) and Cassius (2). My husband, Derek, is an officer for the Boston Police Department.
What hobbies or interests do you enjoy outside of work?
I absolutely love jazz (Billie Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald, John Coltrane, etc.)! During my time off, you might find me singing with some of the local jazz bands, karaoke and at church. I also sew/upholster furniture… and I love baking.
What is your favorite sports team?
New England Patriots.
What would be your dream vacation?
For me, a dream vacation would be to take my family to Disney World.
What is your favorite food?
I have a weakness for cakes made from scratch. My favorite is butter cake with caramel crème frosting.
Is there any volunteer organization or charity you are involved in?
I volunteer by working with youth from my church who have the desire to sing. I help with vocal coaching and ear training.
What in your work and/or personal life are you most proud of?
I am proud of my family ethics and my work relationships. I am proud of the work that we do here in the Pediatric Transplant Center. We not only save lives—we save families.
Is there anything people would be surprised to know about you?
I graduated from Berklee College of Music with a degree in music business.