My journey into nutrition was shaped by my upbringing. I was surrounded by the wisdom of home-cooked meals, fresh garden produce, and the healing power of food. My father, who worked in hospital administration, instilled in me the importance of a balanced lifestyle, while my mother and grandmothers nurtured me with made from scratch meals for the body and soul. Their influence, combined with my early exposure to health and wellness, fueled my passion for nutrition.

​

Before becoming a dietitian, I spent 8.5 years in Information Technology after earning my undergraduate degree in Management Information Systems from Winston-Salem State University. While working in IT, I realized my true passion lay in health and nutrition. I enrolled in the Didactic Program in Dietetics at Virginia State University, where I completed my certificate, followed by a dietetic internship through the same institution. A few years later, I pursued my Master of Science in Dietetics from James Madison University.

​

My formal introduction to functional medicine came in 2012 at the Food As Medicine Conference hosted by the Center for Mind-Body Medicine. That experience completely shifted my perspective. I no longer wanted to work in the sick-care system—I wanted to help people heal and prevent disease before it started. This passion led me to launch Real Nutrition, LLC in late 2013 as a cash-based private practice. In 2020, I expanded to accept insurance, making my services more accessible to those seeking root-cause solutions for gut health, chronic illness, and overall well-being.

​

For 15 years in acute care clinical nutrition, I worked with:
✔ Gastrointestinal surgery patients (bowel resections,TPN, tube feeding, ostomies)
✔ IBS, IBD, leaky gut, gastroparesis, SIBO, GERD, diverticulitis, fatty liver disease and more
✔ Pregnant women (Antepartum unit coverage)
✔ Cardiac rehab patients and bariatric surgery patients
✔ Behavioral health patients (created and taught a Nutrition & Depression class for 4 years)

✔ Patients with pressure injuries, HTN, diabetes, cancer, end-stage kidney disease and amputees
✔ Complex care rehab patients

​

These experiences gave me deep insight into how conventional medicine often overlooks the root causes of disease. Now, through Real Nutrition, LLC, I use a holistic approach, functional medicine testing, and personalized nutrition counseling to help my clients heal from the inside out.

​

I also recognize the health disparities in the Black community and the impact of generational trauma on well-being. My mission is to change the narrative around Black health, provide culturally competent care, and empower people with the tools they need to thrive.

​

Beyond my private practice, I also lead The Well Rooted Woman, a wellness membership designed for holistic healing, community, and sustainable lifestyle change.

​

One of the most important aspects of my life is my faith. My personal relationship with God guides my work and decisions, and I truly believe in the power of prayer to support healing—spiritually, mentally, and physically.

​

Fun Facts About Me

​​

• My first job was at Burger King at 15, and I hated it so much that it motivated me to go to college!

• I’m a foodie—I enjoy cooking and discovering new flavors. 

• My favorite season is autumn—the crisp air, changing leaves, and cozy meals bring me joy and fall wear is the best fashion in my opinion.

• I am an avid herbal tea drinker.

• I was a pescatarian from 1995 to 2002, which sparked my love for health food stores.

• I’m a proud member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.

• I ran my first marathon in 2007.

• I healed my own GERD and discovered my daughter’s gluten sensitivity through functional medicine.

• I enjoy hiking in the woods with my husband and kids in the fall and winter—it’s my way of reconnecting with nature and unwinding just like I did as a kid.