I was born in Seattle, Washington and raised in Tucson, Arizona. I graduated from the Honors Program in Medical Education at Northwestern University. I completed my general surgery residency at the University of Arizona and obtained fellowship training in minimally invasive surgery at the Oregon Health Sciences University in Portland, Oregon. For me, the decision to become a physician was made at an early age, while in grade school. My father, and role model, was a Regents' Professor in neuropsychopharmacology at the University of Arizona College of Medicine. I spent much of my early years at the College of Medicine hanging out in my father's lab and interacting with his physician colleagues and students. I have always had a deep desire to serve. That, combined with a strong interest in science led me to a career in medicine. As a surgeon, I appreciate the opportunity to make a diagnosis and then offer treatment options. However, I especially enjoy interacting with individuals and families during office visits and learning more about them as people, not just patients with a specific disease.
At the Hawaii Permanente Medical Group (HPMG), I am currently the chief of general surgery and the co-director of the bariatric surgery program. I have served as a member of HPMG's board of directors and am actively involved in the medical group. As a member of HPMG I have the privilege of working with some of the finest physicians in the state of Hawaii. I enjoy collaborating with my colleagues to provide the best care possible for our patients. I also appreciate the fact that I am able to focus on taking care of people without having to constantly worry about the "business" aspects of medicine that plague many private practice physicians. As an HPMG physician, I have had the opportunity to present several research papers at academic conferences. This environment enables me to lead a fulfilling career and supports the philosophy that outstanding quality and service will lead to the best outcomes for patients.
I enjoy spending time with my family, whether at home or traveling abroad. I exercise frequently and try to maintain a healthy diet. I recently started stand-up paddle boarding and added running to my list of outdoor activities. I attend church regularly and have served on several local church boards.
