Hello

I was born in the Philippines. I am a graduate of University of San Carlos, Cebu City, Philippines (BSN). Western Governors University (MSN). I have 20 years of nursing experience. I work at Houston Methodist Willowbrook Hospital as an Acute Care Nursing Director. 

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What do you love about the profession of nursing?

Nursing is a calling. One cannot become a nurse for compensation reasons only. I believe we all choose (chose) the profession because we inherently want to help mankind, healers not only physically, but more importantly, nurses are known to provide a holistic approach to patient healing. Considering all aspects of the patient’s wellbeing. 

 

Who has impacted you and why (professional or personal or both)?

I grew up next to a doctor's clinic. The doctor that owned the clinic allowed me to observe him treat his patients and encouraged me to seek a profession in healthcare. 

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What makes you get up and do something every day?

(Bills🤣 jk!) I like what I do. While it is demanding and could be exhausting at times, it challenges me to think outside the box and to consider every aspect of patient care. I feel good and accomplished when I see initiatives and processes that the team worked hard together come to fruition and start to drive results and ultimately improve patient outcomes. I also see myself and my role as the bridge between frontline staff and the C-suite. Representing and advocating for the nurses and at the bedside is one of my driving forces daily at work. In addition to ensuring safe, quality patient care is delivered. 

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Why do you belong to an association like the PNA NH?

It is a platform to share my expertise and work experience as a nurse leader, being able to give back to my colleagues. Keeping in touch with my roots at the same time while expanding my network. 

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What do you do for fun?

I like to work out. I religiously do this six days a week. It gives me structure and routine and clears my mind. Shopping for clothes is also quite relaxing and gratifying for me. Interestingly, I also find satisfaction pulling out weeds from my garden when I used to have one. Especially right after a good overnight rain when the soil is soft. 

Where and what do you want to be in 3 years?

I am a creature of habit. I have been at HMWB for close to 18 years now. I see myself continuing to serve as a nurse leader. 

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Anything that you want to share about yourself, family, pets, etc., that may surprise others?

​I am married to the most selfless man I have ever met. We are empty nesters. I have a son, a novice nurse, and a daughter engaged to be married. I have three step kids and a granddaughter. 

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What does being bold and unstoppable mean to you?

Bold and unstoppable to me means keeping an open mind, thinking outside the box, and saying/thinking “why not!” instead of “why?”. It is also embracing that mindset that we are not second-class citizens. That we can do more and grow more as nurses. We are a strong representation of our profession whether we got our degree back home, here in the United States, or elsewhere in the world.