I was a dental officer in the U.S. Navy, and when I decided to end my active duty service I wanted to put down roots in a community to live and work. As a Southern California native, I wanted to find a community in the Los Angeles area and a professional opportunity brought me to West LA, so I settled in Pacific Palisades -where I took over a long standing dental practice-and am grateful every single day that that is where life led!
Let’s Share Your Story
Tell us a little about yourself. Where did your story begin, and what led you to the Palisades?
I was a dental officer in the U.S. Navy, and when I decided to end my active duty service I wanted to put down roots in a community to live and work. As a Southern California native, I wanted to find a community in the Los Angeles area and a professional opportunity brought me to West LA, so I settled in Pacific Palisades -where I took over a long standing dental practice-and am grateful every single day that that is where life led!
How long have you lived or worked here — and what do you love most about it?
I’ve lived and worked in the Palisades for just under 10 years. There is so much to love about the Palisades, but I LOVE that I can confidently say that there is truly no other community like it. The utter beauty of it is like living in a painting by God, and it comes alive when you experience the warmth of the people in the community. I love that is has a small town heart with world class views.
Tell us about your work or your passion — past, present, or future. What lights you up?
I am a general/family/cosmetic dentist, and I feel beyond blessed to say that my work is my passion. I say that in a way to honor that dentistry, for me, is service. It’s not about fillings or putting your hands in people’s mouths. I feel ignited when I get the opportunity to be a light for someone– whether it is helping them get out of pain, improving their smile, or even just having a conversation and listening. That is such a gift.
Tell us a little about your family, community or what “home” means to you.
My husband and I live in the Highlands– he is originally from Wisconsin and I grew up in the greater LA area. We would love to grow a family here. Community, or ‘home’ definitely is where your people are– to me that means our friends, family, patients, etc. We’ve built such a loving community, and even since the fires where everyone seems to be displaced, we feel such a strong sense of community because we’ve kept in touch with all of our people, and I’m so fortunate to still be seeing our patients.
What’s something unique or special about the Palisades that you’ve experienced firsthand?
So many things. If I had to name just one thing, I’d have to say it’s the feeling of being a part of such a special community. When I initially moved here, I had a mild fear of not feeling like I would belong because it was such a tight knit community, but having felt welcomed with open arms, and getting recognized and stopped when I was out and about in town has been very warming.
Community Favorites
Is/Was there a local business that makes you feel nostalgic or rooted here?
Really, all of the small businesses…but I guess I would say the Garden Cafe.
Who’s the most interesting or inspiring person you’ve met here in the Palisades?
Lee Calvert who is almost 101 years old, and lived in Tahitian Terrace for over 45 years. It’s an honor to have her as one of my dearest friends and she has shown me what true grit and resilience are as she is still thriving..
Fire Reflection
What stands out most from your experience?
The strength of our community, and the unwavering generosity of friends and family.
Was there someone — a neighbor, local hero, or group — that really made a difference for you during or after the fires?
My husband because even in the midst of pure chaos and uncertainty, he is my calm in the storm and my light in the darkness. He really is my rock. And also my staff– even going through the trauma with us, when I asked them to jump they asked ‘how high.’
What did the experience teach you about the Palisades or about yourself?
This experience has taught me how resilient people are, and also that I have lots of fight left in me!
A Few Fun Ones
What advice would you give to others — in life, work, or being a good neighbor?
Love. And be kind. Always. We’ve all been gifted with the infinite resource of kindness, and if you want the world to be a better place, it starts with you and how you treat the person in front of you.
What’s something about you that would surprise most people?
I don’t watch TV. It’s really hard for me to just sit and watch things because I feel so unproductive.
Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
I see myself at our new, beautiful practice across the street from The Village and living here among all our neighbors who have rebuilt and returned. I see it and am grateful for it!
