Restore Healthcare Experience to the WVHA

 West Volusia deserves leadership that understands healthcare from the bedside. As a registered nurse, clinical educator, and former firefighter/EMT, I bring decades of frontline experience that the current Authority does not have. This background shapes my commitment to bringing a clinically informed voice to every decision and ensuring that patient safety, access to care, and health outcomes remain the top priorities in all discussions about community healthcare resources. 

 The closure of the Deltona Clinic was a wake‑up call for our community, highlighting how vulnerable essential healthcare services can be when access is not prioritized. To protect and strengthen care in West Volusia, I am committed to building stronger partnerships with local providers and hospitals, supporting sustainable and accessible primary and preventive care, and ensuring that underserved neighborhoods and vulnerable populations receive focused attention. I also believe in promoting programs that reduce avoidable emergency room visits and hospitalizations, helping residents receive the right care at the right time while improving overall community health. 

 The West Volusia Hospital Authority manages public resources that directly influence the health and well‑being of local residents, and taxpayers deserve clarity and accountability in how those resources are used. I am committed to championing clear, accessible reporting that shows exactly how funds are allocated, maintaining open communication with residents and community partners, and ensuring that all programs and contracts are evaluated through a data‑driven, evidence‑based process. Responsible budgeting is essential, and my focus is on maximizing community benefit by supporting initiatives that genuinely improve health outcomes for West Volusia. 

 As a nurse, I’ve seen firsthand how early intervention and education can change the trajectory of a person’s health and improve quality of life. That experience shapes my priorities, which include expanding preventive health programs, supporting strong chronic disease management initiatives, promoting mental health awareness and access, and ensuring that our veterans, seniors, families, and caregivers have the resources they need to stay healthy and supported. 

 Healthcare decisions must reflect the needs of the people they affect, and that begins with meaningful community engagement. I am committed to regularly visiting our service areas to listen to residents directly what's working and what opportunities exist, building strong relationships with civic groups, faith communities, and local leaders, and ensuring that every voice has a place in shaping the future of the WVHA. Increasing our social media footprint and public awareness is also essential, allowing more residents to stay informed, participate in discussions, and access reliable information about local healthcare issues and initiatives.