Jessica Taylor, ACNP

When I was 13, a dear family friend suggested I pursue a career as a physician assistant after a PA diagnosed her six-year-old child with a type of congenital heart defect. At the time, I was just a teenage babysitter who respected this family and adored their child. Despite my young age, I think the mom saw me as a caregiver. \n That career suggestion took hold. Throughout high school, college, graduate school and additional residency training, I never lost sight of my dream. And now, more than 16 years into my career as a PA, it's still the right path for me. \n A professor in PA school - who was also a stellar role model - used to sign all her emails, Laughter is the best medicine. I've thought of that quote often over the years. I always enjoy bringing humor and joy to my interactions with patients - especially those being treated for cancer or preparing for (or recovering from) surgery. \n I have been part of one team or another for most of my life - first, in sports and now in healthcare. Our multidisciplinary, collaborative approach gives patients the best of our collective experience. \n Born and raised in Litchfield, Ohio, I grew up exploring our rural area with my younger brother. That freedom led me to develop a deep love for the outdoors. \n These days, my outdoor time is mostly spent in my suburban yard and garden - an ever-changing, bountiful slice of heaven, especially since my husband, Jason, and I have two young children running around and making mud pies and dirt soup. We love spending time together as a family, especially if we're traveling to visit immediate and extended family. \n I love creating things with my hands and reading - and wish there were more hours in the day for both. But running and rollerblading take up much of my free time (when I have it). I have completed several marathons, but now run for the feeling of freedom it gives me and for the many health benefits it offers.

I have always loved the sciences. As an undergraduate, I studied nutrition and exercise physiology. I spent several years working as an outdoor educator/guide. This gave me the opportunity to study wilderness medicine, which I found fascinating. \n After getting my emergency medical technician (EMT) license, I worked on an ambulance and in an emergency department. While working as an EMT, I noticed significant gaps in care. I wanted to help address this problem in my community, so I became a physician assistant. I chose surgical oncology as my specialty because I have several family members who have fought cancer, so I've seen firsthand how difficult it can be for the patient and their family members to navigate the healthcare system. \n I strive to treat each patient holistically. Cancer is not just a physical disease process; it's often emotionally and spiritually distressing. I take the time to ensure patients understand their treatment plan and feel comfortable with it. \n I spend most of my free time outside with my partner. We enjoy mountain biking, kayaking, rock climbing and flyfishing. I also enjoy cooking and reading as a respite after a long day at the hospital or on the trails. We have a calico cat named Fiona, whom we adore - even though, at times, she terrorizes us.

I'm a board-certified, fellowship-trained colorectal surgeon with a specialty of diagnosing, treating and managing benign conditions and malignant diseases of the colon and rectum. I'm the only female colorectal surgeon in Western North Carolina. \n For some patients, colorectal issues may be personal or embarrassing. It is my goal to put patients at ease and guide them through treatment with as little discomfort as possible. \n I completed a general surgery residency along with a colon and rectal surgery fellowship at the University of South Florida. In my last year of residency, I was honored to serve as administrative chief resident. \n I stay up to date on the latest traditional and minimally invasive laparoscopic and robotic surgical procedures. I have expertise in not just colon, rectal and anal cancers, but also in complicated diverticulitis, inflammatory bowel disease and anorectal pathology. \n In my free time, I enjoy being with my family, traveling and exploring Western North Carolina - my adopted home and the place I'm happy to be raising my three children. I am grateful for the opportunity to serve this community by providing care in a specialty that's under-represented in our region.