WHERE IT ALL BEGAN
I was born in Santiago, Chile, and immigrated to the United States as a young child. Growing up in Texas in a family with two physician parents, I was introduced to medicine at an early age, which naturally set the stage for my own career in health care. I attended Rice University for my undergraduate studies, then began my medical education at the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston. After my second year, I transferred to the University of Florida College of Medicine, where my husband was stationed for his military training. This move allowed me to continue my medical journey while also supporting his career.
MY PATH TO RETINA
My initial plan was to follow in my father’s footsteps and pursue general surgery. However, during my third year of medical school, an unexpected opportunity arose when a rotation in ophthalmology became available, and I seized the chance. On the first day of the rotation, I found myself in the OR watching a membrane peel, and I was hooked. In that moment, I knew immediately that ophthalmology was the field I wanted to pursue.
Dr. Hooten’s advice: Maintain your compassion and empathy toward your patients. Remember, retina is more than technical skills.
SUPPORT ALONG THE WAY
I have been fortunate to have had mentors at every stage of my training, and I remain in close contact with all of them. During residency, I was guided by Garvin H. Davis, MD, MPH; Judianne Kellaway, MD; and Helen Mintz-Hittner, MD. In fellowship, Rajiv Edlagan Shah, MD; Vishak J. John, MD; and Craig M. Greven, MD, played pivotal roles in shaping my skills and perspectives. Now, as an associate at Retina Group of Washington, I am constantly learning from Reginald Sanders, MD. Beyond providing invaluable education and technical expertise, these mentors have also shared life philosophies and offered crucial advice on navigating my career as a vitreoretinal surgeon while staying grounded.
AN EXPERIENCE TO REMEMBER
It’s difficult to pinpoint a single memorable experience, as there have been so many meaningful moments throughout my career. What stands out most to me, however, are the relationships I have built with my patients—from the infants in the NICU and their families to the elderly adults I see in clinic. These connections are incredibly rewarding. Equally important are the relationships I have developed with my peers and mentors. I continue to collaborate with them daily, sharing cases, exchanging ideas, and supporting one another through both professional challenges and life events.
