Where are you from originally?
I was born in Voorhees, NJ and moved to Houston, TX when I was 10. I returned to the east coast for college and have been slowly making my way down the Atlantic.
When did you join FIT4MOM
I joined FIT4MOM in March 2024 after hearing about it from a friend (Taylor). I was 9 months post-partum, just finishing pumping, and wanted to take time to focus on my own mental and physical wellness.
What is your favorite thing about FIT4MOM?
I love getting to catch up with friends and make new mom friends in a low stress environment. I learn new mom hacks each class and am able to vent about sleepless nights, food throwing, etc with people who just get it.
What do you currently do?
I am a gastroenterologist at Cary Gastroenterology Associates.
Share your thoughts on the concept of “it takes a village” – is it important for moms to join a village?
I used to think "it takes a village" referred to grandparents and aunts/uncles who can be hands on and help with childcare. But now I am realizing it is so much more than that. Everyone's village looks different. It can include family near and far who are able to physically help or be a sounding board for anxious and stressed parents. It can be friends and colleagues who can provide advice or just validate the complexities and stresses of new parenthood. It can be other new moms you met through an app or exercise class that allow you to decompress while you expose your babies to new experiences and know you can bail out with no explanation needed. It can be realistic examples of parenting on social media so you don't feel alone that you can't make fresh BLW meals 3x a day. Whatever your "village" looks like, it is so vital to remain sane throughout this process.
What is your favorite beverage?
Bubble tea! Specifically passion fruit slush with mango popping bubbles. :)
What is your favorite dessert?
Sour candy
You are given 4 hours of FREE baby-sitting. What would you do?
I would go to the movies and get the extra large popcorn and drink. Movie theaters are a staple date night with my husband and we went almost weekly towards the end of my pregnancy to survive the summer heat. We've only been able to go twice since my daughter was born.
What is your ultimate child-free vacation destination?
South Africa! We had the entire trip planned for April 2020. Womp womp
How has becoming a mother changed you?
Becoming a mother has completely changed how I see interpersonal relationships with friends and family. I've come to realize I want to put time and effort into those relationships that provide me joy and comfort. I need to let go of relationships that are negative, toxic or one sided and be better at setting boundaries. This is especially important if these relationships negatively impact my mental health which will invariably trickle down to my daughter.
I am happiest when...
I am at Disney World or Universal Studios with friends and family.