Q&A with Barbara
What is your favorite animated movie or cartoon?
My favorite animated movie is The Lion King.
What is your favorite children's book?
Green Eggs and Ham is one of my favorite childhood books. I've read this book with my children and my grandchildren hundreds of times during their young years. I love how excited they would get knowing what was coming next, how they memorized all of the silly parts of the story!
What was your favorite childhood toy?
Jacks! My mom taught us all how to play. It was challenging and fun.
Who is your greatest inspiration?
My father is the one who inspires me the most. I lost him in 1998. He taught me to go after whatever I wanted and always supported me.
What are your hobbies and interests outside of work?
Camping, fishing, cooking.
What inspired you to work in pediatrics?
Children are out future. Being a part of their life and making a positive impact are important to me. Identifying their needs and partnering with their parents to meet those needs is why I work in pediatrics.
What unique qualities, skills, or services set you apart, and how do you build a positive rapport with patients and their families?
A child's healthcare is driven by their parents. I am here to identify, educate and address any healthcare or social needs as they occur, while allowing the parent the freedom and grace to be the final decision maker.
How do you accommodate patients with special needs?
My approach to caring for special needs children is to meet them where they are. I grew up with a special needs sibling and have spent my entire life helping care for her. It has given me experiences and knowledge of the social, environmental and physical challenges of special needs children. I am well versed in 504, student rights, parent rights and how to help parents navigate the school system to insure a child receives a Free Appropriate Public Education. I am here to support the child and the parents.