Neeru Kaushik, MD

I always knew I wanted to work with children. Kids are so resilient and they are so much fun to work with — they are far more honest than most adults are. You get the genuine article when you talk to a kid. There's a lot to be said about the strength and resiliency of children. The most rewarding part of my job is the bond that I forge with patients and families.

I always say "hi friend" when I walk in the door, because, I assume we're all going to be friends. I have a friendly, casual approach. Children know when you're faking it, so it's really important for each child and family to know that I will always be honest with them. My saying is 'life is a team sport'. I approach medicine the same way, as a team sport. I want my patients and families to know that we are on the same team. We're all in this together to make our kids healthier and safer.