I am originally from Madison, Wisconsin, a beautiful city that endures excruciatingly cold winters. I joke with colleagues that my interest in helping those suffering from chronic pain stems from observing people in Madison respond to it's winters. Although I cannot pinpoint the reasons this interest emerged, it has persisted throughout the years, leading me to a professional life in academia involving research, teaching, and clinical work. Some of my research involved examining the biological pathways in which stress influences pain. I was fortunate to serve as a reviewer for the National Institute of Health and gained direct access to cutting-edge research. When not involved in research, I taught, an experience that blends well with my current clinical work as oftentimes the most important tool I provide is knowledge. I feel privileged to apply my experience at Kaiser Permanente's pain clinic.