Hi, storytime!

​A young girl walked along a beach, surrounded by thousands of starfish washed ashore by a fierce storm. One by one, she gently picked up each starfish and tossed it back into the ocean. A man observed her, puzzled, and asked, “Why bother? You can’t save them all. What difference can you make?”

The girl paused, but only for a moment. She picked up another starfish, threw it into the waves, and said with a smile, “I made a difference for that one.”

 

My high school theater teacher wrote down this story in my graduation card, and I have kept it with me since. As I continue this journey to become a family nurse practitioner, I’m reminded of this story and the impact of small, intentional actions. With a ten year background in wellness coaching, I’ve seen firsthand how empowering individuals to make healthier choices can change lives. As a nurse practitioner, my goal is to do just that: to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those I care for, one person at a time. Whether it’s through preventive care, education, or advocacy, I am committed to helping people take control of their health and well-being. Just like the girl with the starfish, I believe that every step counts, and together, we can create lasting change—one life at a time.