Ladies’ Issue
LOCAL SERVICES
STRENGTH, TENACITY AND HEART — MEET
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY'S TRAILBLAZING PARAMEDICS
Honoring the Women Who Make It All Happen
Nine issues in, and what an incredible journey it has been! As we step into May, a month dedicated to celebrating women, I find myself reflecting on the extraordinary role of mothers—the quiet architects of our everyday lives.
As a mother of three, each in a different school and with their own whirlwind of activities, my days are a delicate dance between publisher in the morning and Uber driver by afternoon. It’s a rhythm that so many of us know well, a beautiful chaos orchestrated by love and duty.
This month, I want to honor all the mothers—the ones who pack the lunches, make sure birthday gifts are wrapped and ready, and sign up for summer camp in November so their kids don’t miss out. Without moms, without women, these to-dos are unlikely to happen.
I want to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude to the women in my life. To my mother, Kimberly Luchini (in the photo above), who raised my brother and me with unwavering warmth and love and who now showers my children with the same care. To my mother-in-law, Frances Lexcen, who is always present for my children—supporting their endeavors and loving them for exactly who they are. And to my grandmother, Emogene Yates, who, like so many grandmothers before her, was the force that brought the family together, making sure that no holiday or milestone ever passed without love and care.
This issue is a tribute to all the remarkable women in our community—the business owners, caregivers, trailblazers, and tireless, selfless mothers who keep it all together. May we always take the time to celebrate them, not just on Mother’s Day but every single day.
With gratitude and admiration,
LAUREL KELLAM, PUBLISHER @WALNUTCREEKCITYLIFESTYLE
May 2025
PUBLISHER
Laurel Kellam | laurel.kellam@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Hemananthani Sivanandam
hema.sivanandam@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Julie Brown Patton, Lindsey Hickman & Linda Ditch
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Albena Ilieva
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
LIVE WHERE YOU LOVE
The Subaru Love Promise Subaru and Diablo Subaru of Walnut Creek believe in making a positive impact on the communities in which we live and work. Through the five core pillars - Environment, Health, Education, Pets and Community - we aim to create change in the areas we and our owners care about the most.
Hosting an onsite adoption with Joybound People & Pets to help shelter animals find their forever home.
In honor of Earth day, and with the help from Arbor Day Foundation, we will be gifting and planting 100 trees.
Partnering with AdoptAClassroom.Org to adopt 10 classrooms at Ygnacio Valley High School and donate 10 Classroom kits.
Working with Boys & Girls Clubs of Silicon Valley-Rocketship Futuro Academy to provide new high quality coats to children in need.
With the help from Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, we are bringing warmth and comfort to patients by donating blankets and care kits to aid during treatment.
1-3: The Northgate High School competitive cheerleading team beat over 250 schools nationwide and clinched the National Championship title at the JAMZ National Cheer Competition in Las Vegas recently. The team, comprising 14 athletes from freshmen to seniors, worked hard to win the school’s first national championship title. Photography by Northgate High School competitive cheerleading team
The Ultimate Mother’s Day Gift Guide
Pamper the Queen of Your Heart With These Gifts!
This Mother’s Day, go beyond the ordinary and give the most important woman in your life a thoughtful gift she’ll truly cherish. Whether she loves fresh flowers, elegant stationery, or a bit of pampering, our curated gift guide has something for every mom!
Night Sky Paperie
Bloom Flowers and Events
Brighten her day with a breathtaking floral arrangement from Bloom Flowers and Events, a local favorite known for stunning bouquets and exquisite flower subscriptions. A fresh floral delivery is the perfect way to remind Mom how much she’s loved—not just on Mother’s Day, but all year long!
Visit: BloomFlowersandEvents.com
ARTICLE BY WALNUT CREEK CITY LIFESTYLE TEAM
PHOTOGRAPHY BY STOCK PHOTOS
If your loved one appreciates handwritten notes and personalized touches, Night Sky Paperie offers beautifully designed custom stationery and unique cards. Elevate her everyday correspondence, or get her a beautiful card this Mother's Day!
Visit: NightSkyPaperie.com
Woodhouse Spa Gift Certificate
Give the gift of relaxation with a Woodhouse Spa gift certificate. Whether she chooses a rejuvenating facial, a soothing massage, or a luxurious spa day, this gift ensures she can unwind and indulge in well-deserved self-care.
Visit: Locations.woodhousespas. com/dir/ca/walnut-creek/1636cypress-st
Cate Jewelry
Nothing says “I love you” like a timeless piece of jewelry. Discover the stunning selection of elegant and exquisite designs from Cate Jewelry. Find something that matches mom's style and makes her feel special every time she wears it.
Visit: Catejewelry.com/
Stock Photo
Stock Photo
Stock Photo
Courtesy of Woodhouse Spa Walnut Creek
STRENGTH, TENACITY, and heart
Meet Three Local Women Saving Lives in Emergency Medicine
ARTICLE BY LINDSEY HICKMAN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALBENA ILIEVA
National Emergency Services Week spotlights the selfless work of those dedicating their lives to saving others. May is an opportunity to recognize local trailblazing women for the skills and courage they bring to the industry. Meet three exceptional female first responders serving Contra Costa County as paramedics in three different roles: on a fire engine, a helicopter, and an ambulance.
THERESA WATKINS
Engineer-Paramedic, Contra Costa County Fire Protection District (CCCFPD)
As a child, Theresa witnessed firsthand the power of EMS when her sister was attacked by a dog. The fire department was the first to arrive and saved her sister’s life. This pivotal moment set her career journey in motion. She earned her EMT certification in 2012, volunteered as a firefighter in Vacaville, and worked her way up from firefighter-EMT to CaptainParamedic with the Rodeo-Hercules fire district. She then lateralled to CCCFPD, where she was promoted and also honored as their 2024 Firefighter of the Year. “I grew up low income, constantly having to move because we were evicted and I was homeless as a young adult,” she explained. “My goal was to become a firefighter and set a solid foundation for my future family but also grounded in a desire to pay it forward. I knew I could never repay the fire department for saving my sister’s life, so I dedicated my career to saving others."
As one of only ten female first responders out of 400 crew members in her department, Theresa works hard to set an example for other women and minorities who aspire to join the profession. Theresa always knew she wanted to become a firefighter but thought it was impossible because it was a "man's career". While doing her associate degree, she was introduced to a female firefighter, and when she was 22, Theresa met her biological father. She learned that her father was a firefighter before becoming a police officer, and her grandfather was a retired battalion chief.
"I guess it was in my blood."
Theresa says women firefighters often hold themselves to a higher standard to prove themselves." Work hard, stay in shape, and do the job, but be easy on yourself. It's a long career, but it goes by fast. Never forget the excitement you feel when you first get hired."
Aimee, Theresa and Melinda
Theresa Watkins
MELINDA TROST
Flight Paramedic, REACH Air Medical Services
With over 20 years of experience in emergency medical services, Melinda is a dedicated flight paramedic with REACH 32 Air Medical Services, specializing in air medical transport for critically ill and injured patients, as well as neonatal transport for newborns. Based in Concord, Melinda has spent the past 13 years providing life-saving care while working alongside a skilled team of flight nurses and pilots.
Her journey was unexpected. Initially studying to become a teacher, Melinda’s path shifted after meeting a friend whose father was a battalion chief for CCCFPD. His stories sparked her interest, leading her to pursue an EMT certification and later become a paramedic.
While pursuing her dream of becoming a flight medic, she volunteered as a firefighter, joining Contra Costa Search and Rescue. She worked part-time in an ambulance and fulltime as a critical care technician in the PICU at Children's Hospital Oakland.
Throughout her career, Melinda has experienced the deep emotional connection that comes with her role. She recalls several instances where female patients specifically requested a female crew member due to personal or cultural reasons. One of her most memorable experiences was with an assault survivor who requested a female paramedic for transport. When she saw me, she held my hand and said, 'My guardian angel is here,'” Melinda reflects. "It was at that moment that I realized the comfort and trust that a familiar face can bring."
Melinda encourages young women to pursue careers in EMS. "Stay passionate, focus on your education, and don't be held back by stereotypes. The work we do is so rewarding, and every day brings a new opportunity to make a real difference in someone’s life."
Melinda Trost
Aimee Skaggs
“It’s a powerful feeling to know that you can provide that level of support during such a difficult time.”
AIMEE SKAGGS
Paramedic, American Medical Response Ambulance
Aimee has been a first responder for 29 years with American Medical Response (AMR) in West Contra Costa. After starting her career as an EMT, she quickly realized that she wanted to deepen her knowledge and skills, leading her to become a paramedic. Aimee's motivation to pursue a career in EMS was fueled by a desire to help people during their most vulnerable moments.
Over the years, Aimee has worked with countless patients, but some of the most powerful connections she’s made are with female victims of sexual assault or domestic violence. As a female paramedic, Aimee has the unique ability to connect with these victims, offering them the reassurance and comfort they often need. "When women see a female first responder, they feel a sense of relief and safety," she explains. "It’s a powerful feeling to know that you can provide that level of support during such a difficult time."
Aimee’s advice for young women looking to join EMS is simple: "Work hard, stay dedicated, and remember that you’re joining an extended family. Helping people is incredibly fulfilling, and every day you make an impact in someone’s life."
Days of Beauty Specials
April 15th - May 23rd
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minimum units 25
Dysport $3.50 per unit minimum unit 75
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Belotero $525 per syringe
Versa $399 per syringe
Restylane $ 495 per syringe while supplies last
Radiesse $600 per syringe
Bellafill $700 per syringe, needs test injection first
Volux Jawline $ 700 per syringe
PRP Scalp: Package of 3 $1500
PLEXR non surgical upper eyelid lift:
Package of 3: $1800
PLEXR upper lip wrinkles:
Package of 3 $1800
PLEXR neck crepy skin tightening: Package of 3 $2250
Microneedling Face (3tx) $1200
Microneedling + PRP face (3tx) $1800
RHA Dynamic Facial Fillers
RHA 1-4: $550-$650
Sculptra 2 vials $1300 while supplies last
Profound Face/Upper Neck: $3200
Cosmeceuticals 20% off
Coolsculpting
Minimum 2 cycles $1100
3-5 cycles $500 per cycle
6 or More Cycles $450 per cycle
IPL $1680*
5-treatment package
ResurFX laser $2500*
4-Treatment Package
Pico Laser $1980*
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PiXel8-RF $1980
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CO2RE Laser Full Face $3180
Perioral $1680*- Periorbital $1280*
Laser Hair Removal20% off INTRODUCTORY SPECIALS
*Includes postcare cosmeceuticals valued at $260
Creating an Authentic and Timeless Signature Style
Learn how to develop a personal style that saves you time, money, and energy—while making you feel confident and effortlessly put together
Style is a way to express yourself and share who you are inside and outside. Creating a "signature look" can feel overwhelming, especially when the fashion industry constantly serves new trends. Every season has a new "it" color, silhouette, and style. It can feel exhausting and leave you feeling either stuck in the past or on the lookout for something new. That is why developing a signature style is important to cultivate a personal aesthetic that feels timeless, authentic, and true to who you are. Here are a few steps to curate your style, saving you time, money, and energy and making you feel much more confident!
ARTICLE BY ALENA LE BLANC
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANDREA LIORA AND DAVID J TOMAN
GET CURIOUS
Start by reflecting on how you—and others— would describe your personality. How do you want to present yourself to the world? Then, consider your lifestyle. If you regularly meet with high-profile clients, your wardrobe will likely differ from that of someone who spends their days doing school drop-offs and volunteering. Ensure your style aligns with your daily activities and work with your lifestyle.
LOOK FOR INSPIRATION
Think about people whose style you admire. What draws you to their style? Platforms such as Pinterest are great ways to gather more inspiration. Save images you love and start identifying common themes. Is there a color or texture that keeps popping up? Find these commonalities to help you incorporate them into your style.
FASHION FORWARD
Photo by Andrea Liora
Photo by Andrea Liora
BUILD A FOUNDATION
A strong wardrobe consists of versatile, timeless pieces that reflect your style and can be easily mixed and matched. Add high-quality basics that serve as the building blocks of your look. Invest in essentials such as a well-fitted pair of jeans, a simple crew or V-neck tee, a button-up shirt, a great-fitting blazer, and versatile footwear. This is also an excellent opportunity to add a signature piece of jewelry you wear daily.
EXPERIMENT AND PLAY
Once you have your foundation, you can add more personal elements. This is where you figure out what you feel good in. Start tuning in to how different shapes, prints, and textures make you feel. Developing your style isn't about following strict rules—it's about exploring and allowing yourself to mix, match, and refine your look. Over time, these small experiments will help you craft a signature style that feels effortlessly you!
“Personal style is personal development.”
Style isn't something you're born with—it's something you cultivate over time. It's a tool that enhances your body, mood, and lifestyle, evolving alongside you. When aspects of your life shift, your style should adapt, too. Developing a signature look is an ongoing journey of refining, experimenting, and confidently owning your aesthetic—one that authentically represents who you are.
Alena Le Blanc is a personal stylist and founder of Le Blanc Label, a styling business dedicated to empowering female founders, entrepreneurs, and busy professionals to feel confident, authentic, and powerful in their personal style. Her motto, "Personal style is personal development," guides her work. She helps her clients embrace intentional style choices that reflect their inner power and elevate their presence in every aspect of life.
For a consultation, visit Leblanclabel.com or https://www.instagram.com/leblanc_label/
Photo by Andrea Liora
Photo by David J. Toman
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
From Stem To Vase:
TRANSFORMING FLORALS INTO ART
Flowers have a rich history of symbolic meanings.
As far back as the 19th century, they were used to convey secret messages. Stories throughout history recount how flowers were used to send hidden messages between people. French publishers began producing flower dictionaries that cataloged the many floral codes that had been gathered over time. Some of these meanings were linked to the flower’s root name, often derived from mythology, while others were drawn from the flowers themselves. The colors, medicinal properties, and even the superstitions
associated with these flowers all contributed to the creation of this secret language.
In addition to their symbolic significance, flowers bring natural beauty to any interior, enhancing spaces with their color, texture, and mood-boosting qualities. Floral arrangements not only create a cozy atmosphere but also infuse a room with personality, elevating the overall ambiance. There are multiple ways to creatively integrate florals into your home, and whether using fresh or artificial flowers, creative displays can make quite the statement piece.
Hanging Florals
Florals and Fruit
Add an extra burst of color and texture to your floral arrangement by layering fruit around the edges of your vase. To achieve this, place a smaller vase inside a larger one, ensuring the flowers stay contained in the inner vase to preserve their shape. Fill the surrounding space with water and then arrange sliced fruit along the vase’s outer sides. For a fresh touch, add ice cubes to keep the fruit looking vibrant longer and to hold them in place. Not only will the flowers’ fragrance fill the air, but the citrus notes from the fruit will add a refreshing scent.
For a dramatic effect, try creating a hanging floral display. Floral cones are available for this style, or you can craft your own for a more personalized, organic look. The contrast between long-stemmed white flowers and a dark wall creates a striking visual impact.
No matter how you choose to display them, flowers are a wonderful addition to any room. They boost mood, improve air quality, spark creativity, and bring a decorative charm to any space.
Flower Frogs
Using a frog to display flowers creates a minimalist yet elegant look that highlights the individuality of each bloom. It helps the stems stay in place. To set it up, place the frog on your chosen display base, whether it’s a vase, bowl, platter, or any container you prefer. Then, simply insert the flower stems by gently pressing them into the prongs. Tip: Flowers with sturdy stems and a lighter top work best in a frog, as delicate blooms tend to lose their shape more quickly.
SHOOK Research, LLC. Investment performance is not a criterion. Self-completed survey was used for rating. This rating is not related to the quality of the investment advice and based solely on the disclosed criteria.
2023 Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Management Teams: Awarded January 2023; Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on the time period from 3/31/21 - 3/31/22 (Source: Forbes.com). Fee paid for use of marketing materials. The Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Management Teams rating algorithm is based on the previous year’s industry experience, interviews, compliance records, assets under management, revenue and other criteria by SHOOK Research, LLC. Investment performance is not a criterion. Self-completed survey was used for rating. This rating is not related to the quality of the
advice and based solely on the disclosed criteria.
BALANCING beauty AND MOTHERHOOD
Motherhood is often described as a juggling act. For Gina Deluca, a hairstylist and co-owner of Salon Hanover in Walnut Creek, this couldn’t be more true. Since the birth of her son Giovanni in December 2023, she has navigated the transition from working full-time to finding a new rhythm that allows her to be both a dedicated mother and a thriving stylist.
“I used to work five to six days a week, taking clients at all hours,” Gina shares. “Now, I work four days a week, and I make every moment count—both in the salon and at home.” With the support of her husband, family, and salon community, Gina has found a way to embrace the beautiful chaos of motherhood without losing herself in the process.
Like many moms, Gina has felt the pressure to “do it all.” But she quickly realized that chasing an unattainable balance wasn’t the answer. “Some days, you feel like you’re doing great at work but missing out at home, and other days, it’s the opposite,” she admits. “I’ve learned to give myself grace and accept that it’s never going to be perfect.”
With clients who are often mothers themselves, Gina finds comfort in the shared experience. “We all have moments of feeling overwhelmed, but hearing other moms say, ‘You’re doing great’ means everything.'”
HAIR TIPS FOR BUSY MOMS
Between diaper changes and school drop-offs, finding time for self-care—especially haircare—can be a challenge. Here are some practical tips by Gina to look put-together without spending hours in front of the mirror:
ARTICLE BY LAUREL KELLAM
PHOTOGRAPHY BY STANI
PHOTOGRAPHY AND GINA DELUCA
Gina Deluca’s Journey
Photo by Stani Photography
1. Go for Low-Maintenance Color: “Opt for natural, lived-in color that doesn’t require frequent touchups. Balayage or root smudging blends beautifully as it grows out.”
2. Layers for Versatility: “A little layering adds movement and makes styling easier. You can quickly curl a few pieces or let it air dry for a soft, effortless look.”
3. Dry Shampoo is Your Best Friend: “Spray it on clean hair before bed to absorb oil overnight, so your style lasts longer.”
4. Postpartum Hair Loss Solutions: “Many moms experience hair loss around the hairline after giving birth. A slicked-back bun or using a claw clip can help keep those shorter regrowth pieces in check.”
Gina says motherhood isn’t meant to be done alone, so surrounding yourself with a strong support system makes all the difference.
The journey of balancing motherhood and a career is ever-evolving but Gina embraces it with a mix of humor, resilience, and, of course, great hair.
“At the end of the day, when I see Giovanni’s smile, I know I’m doing something right.”
NAOMI BRECKON, M.D. Co-Founder
East Bay Health
optimizing patients’ well-being
East Bay Health Co-Founders Provide Free Care To Uninsured, Low-Income Individuals
ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY EAST BAY HEALTH
Family medicine physicians and East Bay Health co-founders Tracy Hu, M.D., and Naomi Breckon, M.D., explain how they optimize patients’ health care.
AS A NONPROFIT, WHAT FREE HEALTH CARE SERVICES ARE PROVIDED BY EAST BAY HEALTH MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS?
“We offer free primary care services to people below the poverty line and who are uninsured. When people need health care the most, we’re there for them. We offer a free community postpartum support group with therapists and a pediatrician to help new mothers, too. We also provide hands-on cooking lessons focusing on ‘food as medicine,’ helping with chronic health conditions to improve dietary needs.”
WHAT IS 'DIRECT PRIMARY CARE'? HOW DOES IT BENEFIT PATIENTS?
“DPC is a health care model where patients pay a flat monthly or annual fee directly to their primary care provider instead of going through insurance. This model allows 30 to 60-minute visits for in-depth discussions about health concerns instead of rushed 15-minute appointments. We offer same-day or next-day appointments; our patients have direct communication with us via phone, text, or email.”
HOW DO YOU PERSONALLY HANDLE PATIENT EDUCATION?
“We have long appointments with patients, often spending over an hour with them. I love using this time to teach my patients about their health conditions. Longer visits allow us to advise on preventative medicine, as well as treatment of active conditions. Another benefit is interpreting specialists' recommendations to patients. I often find patients are confused why they're taking certain medications or why they have a test scheduled. We have the time to allow patients to fully participate in their care.”
HOW IS FREE MEMBERSHIP DETERMINED AT THE CLINIC?
“Patients must be uninsured or demonstrate their income falls below specified thresholds based on family size.”
TRACY HU, M.D. Co-Founder East Bay Health
FOR WHAT REASONS WAS EAST BAY HEALTH LAUNCHED?
“We felt we couldn't provide the kind of high-quality primary care we wanted in the current health care system of seeing 20-30 patients a day. We want to spend more time with patients and actually get to know them, which not only helps us provide better care, but also feel more fulfilled as doctors."
WHAT MAKES EAST BAY HEALTH UNIQUE AMONG HEALTH CARE PROVIDERS?
“Our nonprofit mission is to make health care equitable. We're one of three clinics in Northern California, and maybe in the country, that provides concierge-level care for free to patients who are underinsured and low-income. We're also big believers of culinary medicine and the importance of lifestyle changes in preventing and reversing chronic diseases. Our clinic has a demonstration kitchen where patients learn about healthy cooking with seasoned chef Cindy Gershen of Sunrise Bistro.”
WHAT ADDITIONAL SERVICES DOES THE CLINIC OFFER?
“We have a pediatrician who is also a certified lactation consultant; she does comprehensive newborn care for the first month of life, which includes home visits. I'm a certified massage therapist and offer bodywork appointments for patients who have musculoskeletal issues and/ or chronic pain. We also hold after-school classes for kids on topics such as healthy cooking, mindfulness, art, and music. Lastly, we offer free lectures on health topics, mindfulness classes, and support groups.”
WHAT ROLE DOES MENTAL HEALTH HAVE IN OVERALL WELL-BEING?
“Mental health is essential to overall well-being. One of our goals is to bring aboard a therapist who can see patients as part of their primary care membership. We're focusing on expanding our support groups that are free and open to all. We currently have a weekly postpartum support group held by our pediatrician and a licensed psychologist. We hope to start a support group for seniors. We'll be fundraising for these goals at our upcoming annual spring gala."
ARTICLE BY LINDA DITCH | PHOTOGRAPHY BY GETTY IMAGES/STANFORD ATHLETICS
JEWEL ROEMER’S Olympic Journey
TEAM USA AND STANFORD WOMEN'S WATER POLO PLAYER SHARES WHAT IT'S LIKE TO BALANCE SPORTS AND LIFE
If Stanford University athlete Jewel Roemer wrote an essay about what she did last summer, it would tell an amazing story. Most of her time was spent at the 2024 Paris Olympics as a member of the U.S. Women's Water Polo team. With the support of hip-hop artist Flavor Flav, she and her teammates rode the wave of women's sports popularity, narrowly missing the podium by just one goal.
Jewel grew up in Martinez and is a two-time NCAA National Champion with the Stanford women's water polo team. She was also a member of the USA national team that won the 2024 World Championship in Doha, Qatar. Jewel is a senior completing her degree in human biology, focusing on human performance, health, and physiology.
Walnut City Lifestyle asked Jewel about her life and what the future holds.
“When I reflect on my experience...I learned a lot about myself, my team, and the journey even before we arrived.”
You started playing at the age of seven. What drew you to the sport?
In the beginning, it was really hard for me to play as a younger girl, competing against 10-year-olds. I obviously didn't like being drowned or splashed, but once I started to improve after about two years of playing, I began to really enjoy it. I was the one dominating others, and I found myself being competitive. I really appreciated the mix of intelligence required in the game, along with its physicality. It's just very rewarding to engage in such a high-intensity, physical game while also having to outsmart your opponents.
How do you balance life and sports at your skill level?
The balance is something I've been managing since I was younger, so it's not new to me. I'm lucky to have parents who supported me through those situations. Going into college, I felt very prepared for the athletic-school-social balance. Sometimes, when I find myself feeling overwhelmed, I'm usually hyper-fixating on sports or school, and I need to just take a break, step back, and reconnect with the people I love and enjoy spending time with.
What was the Olympic experience like for you?
There's so much more to the Olympic experience than the Olympics itself. Specifically, my team trained every day for an entire year, with just one day off each week. When I reflect on my experience, I think about that a lot. I learned a lot about myself, my team, and the journey even before we arrived.
You're now playing your senior year at Stanford. What do you envision for the future? The 2028 Olympics?
That's what I'm trying to decide right now. I can go play on a European professional team because I do want to continue playing water polo and train for 2028. I'm also thinking about potentially staying at Stanford and doing a one-year program to keep learning more.
