Can you describe your current stage of life?
I am 28 years old and moved to Rochester at the end of February for the hand therapy occupational therapy fellowship at Mayo Clinic. I grew up in Vancouver, Washington and completed my undergraduate degree at Rice University, followed by my Occupational Therapy clinical doctorate at Washington University in St. Louis. I practiced OT with focus in hand therapy and neurological rehabilitation in the Portland, Oregon area for two years before coming to Rochester. Within a couple weeks of moving here, I visited Calvary and quickly felt at home. I am blessed to be part of the Calvary community through Foundations, women’s ministry, and the worship team.
What are the good and the hard things about your current stage of life?
The excitement of continually learning new skills in my career, the blessings of fellowship and friendships at Calvary, and the joy of serving through violin music in Rochester are a few of the wonderful things in my current stage of life. I also have the opportunity to network across the country as a young professional and travel for friends weddings, reuniting with friends from college and graduate school.At the same time, the uncertainty as I figure out plans for work after my fellowship (ending March 2026) sometimes has me at the edge of my seat. My family still lives in Vancouver, Washington, and being far from home is also challenging at times. Thank God for FaceTime to keep in touch with our loved ones! I have always been a planner, but I have learned to wait on God’s timing even when it is difficult.
In what stage of life do you feel God has taught you the most so far? Explain.
During my freshman year of college at Rice University, I experienced repetitive strain injuries as a violin performance major. I had to stop playing for six months. During that time of significant pain and uncertainty, I learned to truly trust God’s plan for my life, even when I don’t see the next step of my path. It led me to become an occupational therapist and hand therapist, and thankfully, I still have the privilege of playing violin to share the joy of music with others. That experience has been used to glorify God in many ways. I frequently look back to reflect on God’s goodness through that period of transition.
What is a Bible verse, quote, or song lyric that has meant a lot to you? Explain.
Jeremiah 29:11-13 “ For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.” This verse kept me grounded in God during my challenging period 10 years ago, and continues to be part of my testimony. Back then, I could not see the light at the end of the tunnel, through my physical pain and the stress of my life plans and career changing. Every year since then, I see how God’s plan is much more incredible than anything I could imagine. This Bible verse is a pillar in my faith, a reminder of God’s faithfulness in my life. Whenever I question or feel anxious about the future, I am reminded to be still and wait on the Lord (Psalm 46:10). He is always doing amazing things for His glory.
What or who is helping you through this stage of life?
My parents have always been my support, praying for me and providing wisdom for each big and little thing. Despite being across the country, I get to communicate with my mom every day via texting, phone calls, and FaceTime (it is a bonus when I get to see the whole family with our cockapoo Buttercup). Even when I can’t explain all the details of my challenging situations, my mom listens, encourages, prays, and guides. She has been a model for serving God through Bible Study Fellowship, in our family, and through the church and continues to demonstrate how to follow God in all that we do. J
Just for fun: What song or book title describes your life right now?
Steven Curtis Chapman’s song “Do Everything” wonderfully describes how I strive to live each day: Do everything you do for the glory of God. Whether I am treating a patient, performing violin, doing Bible study, or talking with my housemates, the heart attitude behind everything matters to God. I pray for joy and the right perspective each day, so that I may work and serve Him, all for His glory.