I believe God calls us to a mission bigger than ourselves-to love fiercely, serve humbly, and change lives one heart at a time. For me, that mission is caring for kids, and I'm fired up to bring that calling to Cook Children's in Ennis, Texas, as I start a new chapter in 2025. My why is simple: every child deserves a champion who fights for their health, their joy, and their future. I'm here to be that champion, to make a difference in Ennis families, and to live out the truth that "the world may be different because I was important in the life of a child," as Forest Whitcraft said.

My journey began in San Antonio, where faith and grit shaped me. I earned my bachelor of arts in biology with a chemistry minor at Texas A&M University. I honed my skills in the master's program in biomedical sciences at Boston University School of Medicine, then answered God's call to return home for medical school at The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, earning my M.D. in 1999. My pediatric residency there was the foundation for a lifelong commitment to kids. For over 23 years, I've been a pediatrician in Amarillo, where I have volunteered with Hope Choice since 2002 to mentor pregnant mothers who find themselves in an unexpected or unplanned pregnancy. I have also served as chief of pediatrics at Northwest Texas Hospital and on the March of Dimes board. Now, I'm bringing that passion to Cook Children's in Ennis.

At Cook Children's, I'm ready to give Ennis families my best-every visit, every day. Whether it's a well-child checkup, sick visit, treating allergies, infections, or developmental needs, I'm here to listen, heal, and inspire. As a board-certified pediatrician, I'm equipped to guide kids from their first breath to their graduation, partnering with parents to build healthy, thriving futures. My practice at Cook Children's offers comprehensive care, from immunizations to counseling, with the same heart I've brought to every patient for over two decades. I'm thrilled to join a team known for excellence, serving alongside folks who share my fire for kids' health. And I'll be active in the community-ready to volunteer, mentor and show up for the children in Ennis.

I'm a wife to David McKenzie and a mom to four incredible blessings-Elizabeth, Landry, Sarah, and Joshua-who keep me grounded and remind me why I do this. Whether I'm hiking, cooking, or traveling with my family, I'm recharging to give more to the kids and families I serve. I'm not perfect, but I'm committed-heart and soul-to making a difference. Ennis, I'm here for your kids, your hopes, and your future. Come join me at Cook Children's, and let's make every moment count for your family.