I was born and raised in Valparaiso, in Northwest Indiana, where I developed a love and passion for animals at a young age. When I was 11 years old my beloved guinea pig developed a bladder stone, and I was in awe of the veterinarian who cared for him and aspired to one day follow in his footsteps.

I received my bachelor’s degree in biology and completed veterinary school at Purdue University, and then spent ten years working in a small animal private practice in Indiana. I enjoyed the connections I made with families as I cared for their pets throughout their life. Through my experiences caring for senior pets, I also learned what a gift it was to be able to provide a peaceful and personal end-of-life experience for pets and the families who love them.

My family and I were fortunate to say goodbye to my childhood dog at home. A year later, I had to do the same for my own dog at a veterinary clinic at the end of a busy day at work. The contrast between these two end-of-life experiences showed me how much more relaxed and peaceful the euthanasia process was for pets and their families when it could be done in the comfort of their home.

I also saw what a comfort human hospice care was when I lost my grandparents and my aunt, and I remember thinking that the veterinary field was lacking compared to human medicine. When I learned about Lap of Love and the work that they were doing, I was impressed and inspired to be part of it. I feel called to help families say goodbye to their beloved pets in the most peaceful and compassionate way possible, and I am excited to provide this service for Northwest Indiana families.

When I am not working, I enjoy spending time with my fiancé, our daughter, and our two cats, Michael and Jane. I also enjoy stand-up paddleboarding, bicycling, playing soccer, and reading.