I was raised and grew up east of South Porcupine.  I attended St. Joseph’s School on Huot Street and finalized my high school years at RMSS (surprisingly, each of these schools are only a few blocks from the SPAH).  In grade 2, I already knew that when I grew up, I was going to be a VETERINARIAN.   I went to Laurentian University spending 4 years on a Biochemistry degree before being accepted into the prestigious Ontario Veterinary College in 1995.   The five years spent at OVC was a life changing experience with great mentors and classmates; many of whom I stay in contact with to this day.   Fast forward to June 2000: graduation and then the real world. In the beginning I separated out my time between 2 other local clinics for the first 6 months.  After this time,  I diversified my job with teaching Livestock medicine courses to local area farmers to educate them for better animal husbandry techniques with respect to medications.

In early 2006, I wanted to stay closer to home and this is how the South Porcupine Animal Hospital was born.   There was the perfectly located old familiar KFC,  around from when I was a kid growing up,  and the building was for sale.   With some tough decisions, I leapt at the chance for new challenges all while staying in my community.  After destruction and construction, the clinic was opened on June 22, 2006.   The practice has grown substantially in those years, until the decision was made in the fall of 2015 that more space was needed.   Fast forward to September 15, 2017 and we are just getting into our new and spacious addition.  These new areas have been thoughtfully considered for what is best for all pets and clients.  There are 2 substantial pieces of limestone above our reception fireplace.  I ask you to observe and read the words as I am hoping that everyone will take something away from those thoughts proudly displayed.

Professionally, I strive to take as much continuing education as possible.  In the past, I have studied many orthopaedic and soft tissue continuing education courses, all based with highly respected veterinary accredited surgeons.   I have great relationships with the many pathologists I have encountered in my 25 year career.  It is with their help and the academic drive to find answers if available that allow me to continue to grow as a veterinarian.  Every day, every case, every client, every patient – I learn something new.  This allows me to LOVE the career path that I have chosen. As of April 2024, Dr Phillippe Levis has taken on an equal partnership role at the South Porcupine Animal Hospital.  I am thrilled to accept his partnership as he has become a valued member of the veterinarians at SPAH and I can possibly slow down (I can hope!).

Personally, as many of you know, my 5 dogs are my heart and soul.  I spend a lot of time with them and they give me a lot of learning opportunities.  Currently, I have  Monkey, Braelyn, Reeghan, Eisley and Kestra.   We had to say goodbye to our matriarch Jules in May 2024; her presence and feisty spirit are missed every day since her loss.   Even with the sadness and grief,  these 5  Cocker and Springer Spaniels have given me a vast appreciation to cherish each day with love.     I am also lucky to spend my time with my best friend and travel companion,   Rick.    In my spare time, I get to do a variety of things:  life is never boring- but it is much better with a few dogs and cats and maybe perhaps a chicken or two. In June of 2025, I will have had 25 years in a profession that I can truly say is the best with great human and animal contact throughout the years.