Where did you complete your training?
Before I was a nurse, I was a teacher. I taught children and adults in Victoria, The Czech Republic, Mexico and Vancouver. When I decided to go back to school to become a nurse, I was living in Vancouver, so I did my nursing degree at the University of British Columbia.

What is your special area of interest?
My passion is health prevention and promotion. As much as possible, I want to support people to be healthy; not just physically, but mentally, emotionally and spiritually. I think that good nutrition, regular physical activity and work-life balance are key components to achieving optimal health.

What is the best thing about working in the Congenital Heart Disease specialty?
I really appreciate the diversity of the patients who come to the PACH Clinic. Getting to know patients and their families over time and seeing them on a long-term basis is one of the things I enjoy most about my job.

What is one thing that you think that all patients with Congenital Heart Disease should know?
Live your life to the fullest and take good care of your body. The challenges in life are so much easier to handle when we are well-rested, well-nourished and well-supported. Find activities that you enjoy and surround yourself with people who inspire you.

If you weren’t a nurse, what would you be?
If I weren’t a nurse, I would probably be working in health care in another capacity. I would like to study naturopathic medicine or holistic nutrition.

Do you have any interesting hobbies or talents or pets?
Traveling with my husband and our daughter is my favourite thing to do. I also love being outdoors, especially by the water, as it keeps me grounded and reminds me of what is really important in life. Foreign films, interesting books and having good meals with friends definitely make my life better.