Schneck Pediatrics Welcomes Dr. Amber Allen
Where did you grow up?
I'm originally from Rosedale, Indiana - population of 800 when I lived there - but I moved to Vermillion County (near Clinton) before starting high school. So I've been a Rosedale Hotshot, a Bridgeton Racoon, and a South Vermillion Wildcat along with being a proud Hoosier.
Please tell us about your family.
I met my husband, Chris, in Bloomington while I was attending IU. He does custom carpentry, but is skilled in almost all facets of construction including commercial building. Our son, Nathan, who was born at the end of my residency, still lives at home with us and works construction with Chris. We enjoy outdoor activities and we currently have three dogs and three cats between the three of us.
My "chosen" mom, who helped to raise me, still lives in Rosedale and my mother-in-law still lives on the west side of Bloomington.
When did you know you wanted to be a pediatrician?
I decided I wanted to be a child psychiatrist sometime during junior high. I've always been a helper and other students would often confide in me and ask for help. During medical school, I was able to spend some time with Dr. Morris Green and he helped me to see that I could make a larger impact as a pediatrician. It was then that I learned how rewarding and how fun pediatrics can be. I'm blessed to be able to watch babies grow and develop into amazing young adults. And I get to play throughout my work day - how awesome is that?!?
What is your favorite memory from your residency?
I've been asked to share my most memorable moment - but truthfully, there are so many that stand out. From patients who once arrives fearful and now look forward to their visits, to nonverbal autistic children who've surprised me be calling my name... to an asthmatic patient who used to be hospitalized at least once a year but was able to get his asthma under control and has not required any admissions since - each story is a reminder of why I do what I do.
What attracted you to work at Schneck?
I chose Schneck because of its commitment to providing the highest quality of medical care and its dedication to caring for and giving back to the community. Schneck actually does what many healthcare facilities only claim to do.
