Sharad Kunnath, M.D.

I chose pediatric neurosurgery because I think kids are simply wonderful," said Dr. Fornoff. " I love having interactions with both the patients and their caregivers. The way in which their resiliency empowers those around them is truly inspiring." When it comes to dealing with what is often a difficult time in a family's life, Dr. Fornoff said, "I try and make this process (neurosurgery) not scary. And I try to let the kids and families know I'll be there with them every step of the way. I am truly grateful they allow me to be such an important part of their lives.

When Dr. Monica Kelly was a teenager, her little sister became very ill and needed to be hospitalized. One of the pediatricians at the hospital made a huge difference to her family by being extremely present and always available to help them. That's when she decided to go into medicine. "I wanted to be present to help people like that," Dr. Kelly said, "and every time I worked with children in medical school, I knew pediatrics is where I belong," She enjoys educating both children and their families and working together with them as partners in caring for their kids.