Why did you choose medicine?
I chose to devote my life to medicine because of the many experiences I observed and lived in rural and suburban northern Mexico, beginning at an early age. I always wanted to be able to help others feel better, get their health back, and ameliorate physical and mental pain and suffering as much as possible.
When science has given its all, I want to be present for my patients and their families in their moments of need.
Why did you choose Yale Department of Internal Medicine for your fellowship?
I wanted to get the best training to become a better doctor and geriatrician. I like the fact that Yale has a great balance between academic and clinical training experiences. I also like the opportunity to be part of multidisciplinary and multicultural health care teams to help our diverse patient populations in an effective, sensitive, and holistic way. Having the opportunity to provide care to our veterans at the VA is also a great honor.
What was your path to Yale?
I was a nontraditional student. I joined the workforce at a very young age, and eventually, life brought me to America. I started my health care career as a certified nursing assistant at a rehab and nursing home in Las Vegas. I worked part time while pursuing a nursing degree at the College of Southern Nevada and Nevada State College.
Eventually, I became a psychiatric nurse working for the State of Nevada. I got into medical school with a lot of effort and a little luck (or Divine intervention—I am a believer) to do more for my patients. After my medical training at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, I had the privilege of doing my family medicine residency at Sollus Northwest/ Yakima Valley Farm Workers Clinic, in central Washington State. When I decided to pursue training in geriatric medicine, a lifetime of effort, people believing in me, and Divine intervention (again) brought me to Yale.
What is a fun fact about you?
My wife and I cook together on the weekends. Sometimes, we reverse-engineer recipes from our favorite restaurants...
The Department of Internal Medicine at Yale School of Medicine is among the nation's premier departments, bringing together an elite cadre of clinicians, investigators, educators, and staff in one of the world's top medical schools. To learn more, visit Internal Medicine.