Maria is a native Floridian who moved to Charlotte 14 years ago for residency training in Emergency Medicine at Carolinas Medical Center. She has been practicing Emergency Medicine at CaroMont Regional Medical Center for the past 11 years. Maria initially thought she was going to become a pediatric oncologist when she first entered medical school; however, she realized that she wanted to care for both children and adults. She decided to specialize in Emergency Medicine so she could interact with
patients and families during some of their most vulnerable and stressful moments in their lives.

 

This path led Maria to Adam and his family. Maria had the privilege of caring for Adam when he was initially diagnosed with cancer. She will never forget that initial conversation with his family—the tears, the hugs, the uncertainty, and the fear of the unknown. Witnessing Adam’s strength, perseverance, and determination during his entire fight here on earth has left a footprint on her heart forever. He is a patient that she will never forget, and she knows he will never be forgotten by the many people he has and continues to touch.

 

Maria is excited and honored to be a part of the
Strong Like AK family to continue advocating for pediatric cancer patients and their families.