About Me

Welcome to my Web page. I am pleased to have this opportunity to introduce myself and share information about my practice.

Biography

I was born in Germany while my father was serving as a military officer, and I grew up in various countries. I started college at the age of 16 and subsequently received a scholarship to complete my undergraduate studies at Texas Tech University. There I was encouraged to consider a career in medicine so I enrolled in some pre-medical courses and volunteered at a hospital where I became a technician at the County Medical Examiner’s Office. My interactions and the experience of assisting the Chief Medical Examiner convinced me that I wanted to be a surgeon. I ultimately graduated from the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston and completed my surgical internship and residency at Baylor University Medical Center in Dallas. After that, I moved to Los Angeles and completed my surgical oncology fellowship at the John Wayne Cancer Institute, where I also served a rotation at Kaiser Permanente Los Angeles Medical Center. I knew Kaiser Permanente was the place and team for me. I received The American Board of Surgery Certifications in General Surgery and in Complex Surgical Oncology.

About my practice

I specialize in surgery for patients with complex tumors of the abdomen including the digestive system, liver, and pancreas. I am trained in robotic surgery and utilize that technique when appropriate. We use a team approach which includes surgical residents, fellows, and a nurse practitioner to best meet your needs. I consider it an ultimate privilege to be able to use my surgical skills and the knowledge of oncologic principles to help patients regain their health. I also believe that communicating with my patients to help them understand their condition and what we will do about it is an important part of your treatment. Mentoring surgical residents and clinical research are also a significant and satisfying part of my responsibilities. Surgery is my passion. Practicing and teaching medicine fulfills my sense of belonging.

How I thrive

Spending time with my husband and two children is very important to me. I especially enjoy hiking, travel, and relaxing on the beach.