While I don't have asthma, my mother and sisters both had asthma growing up. When I started medical school I was exposed to the challenges in managing asthma in a large city and in underresourced populations. This lit a fire in me and I knew that I wanted to focus my career on asthma. I engaged in research projects and then pursued a fellowship in Allergy/Immunology with an asthma focus.

After I finished my training, I wanted to work with the community to get their input on research studies and design/deliver interventions that address social and environmental barriers of children and adults living with asthma, in under-resourced settings.

Do you have a specific success story or milestone that you are particularly proud of?

As an asthma physician, the best success is when I hear my patient's say that their life has changed because of the care that I provide. When patient's refer their family to me, it is the biggest honor I can receive.

What motivates you to stay positive and proactive in managing your or your loved ones' asthma?

I am motivated by my patients most of all. They inspire my research and my commitment to working with the community and government to fight for the rights for patients living with asthma.

Do you have any advice for others living with asthma or for those supporting someone with asthma?

Don't let asthma control your life, you control it!