In my own life and in my studies to become a pediatric/adolescent physician, I have learned the value of childhood. Not only is it a crucial time for physical growth, nutrition and development, but it is a time of personal growth and learning about the world and the self. It is a time to feel protected or even invincible.

For two years before medical school, I worked with kids (but don't tell my ninth graders I called them 'kids') through an AmeriCorps program in a West Philadelphia high school. This past summer, I had the amazing opportunity to volunteer in a pediatric hospital in La Paz, Bolivia.  Kids are kids - in the hospital, at school, in Spanish or English. No child should have to deal with the confusion of cancer and its treatment. 

Through my fundraising for my Bolivian adventure, I discovered a love for running. What better way to combine my passion for helping children and running in the 'Happiest Place on Earth'?  Help me raise money for Childhood Cancer Research and maybe even relive a little bit of my childhood. I run February 22, 2014 at Walt Disney World! 

Thank you!