I was born and raised in Vancouver. I pursued a Bachelor’s degree at the University of Oregon and a Master’s degree the University of Victoria. I have a passion for medical science that came about through my teenage experience of tearing my ACL as a high-level athlete. I have returned to the game of soccer in the last year and play competitively in Vancouver. I love sports; I play both soccer and football while I watch soccer, football, hockey and any other sports that grab my attention. Growing up I was always a shy girl more comfortable with a novel than socializing with friends. I still consider myself an introvert and I find solace in small group. On top of my studies, I have worked as a paramedic for the last 5 years on Salt Spring Island. When I am not working or playing sports, I am content with a good read or heading for the outdoors. I love being outside; there is something magical about the fresh air. If you can’t find me, I am probably sitting by the ocean listening to the waves and smelling the salty air.
Research Interests
I completed my Master’s degree at the University of Victoria in Interdisciplinary Studies, combining the disciplines of Medical Science, Neuroscience and Psychology together. My Master’s thesis sought to investigate the sub-concussive effects of soccer heading in practice on brain structure and function. My PhD, in Rehabilitation Sciences, is divided into two sections: sub-concussive impacts and concussive impacts. I am continuing my investigation into soccer heading by looking at both practices and games over the course of an entire competitive season. I will be evaluating the changes in brain function as a function of head impacts. Additionally, I am investigating the effects of non-invasive brain stimulation on recovery from sports-related concussions. We are interested in determining if brain stimulation can decrease symptoms while also promoting positive changes on brain function. I hope to incorporate a cognitive computer-based application into the rehabilitation program with brain stimulation.