Micaela Simon is a Tempe nurse practitioner, HIV specialist and co-owner of Be Well Family Care, a medical practice offering equitable, inclusive healthcare for everyone, including the LGBTQIA+ community. “We offer a stigma-free, safe space for everyone to obtain quality healthcare.” Learn about Micaela Simon…
Follow at: @bewellfc
Hometown: Irvine, California
First job: Recreation leader for the City of Irvine.
Favorite ways to spend your free time in AZ: I enjoy hiking and exploring our local mountains.
Your biggest accomplishment and why: Raising my daughter as a single parent. No greater challenge but no bigger reward!
The biggest obstacle you overcame: Opening a medical practice. There are many roadblocks, especially for nurse practitioners, but our perseverance paid off.
Someone who inspires you and why: One of my early colleagues, a physician assistant, TJ Sirine. He took the time to educate and understand the importance of ending the HIV epidemic. His passion led me to pursue becoming an HIV specialist and basing my medical practice on the specialty.
Advice to someone pursuing a career path in what you do: Build professional relationships. Networking can open up opportunities, provide guidance and support you throughout your career.
Favorite quote: “It is bad enough that people are dying of AIDS, but no one should die of ignorance.” —Elizabeth Taylor
Something someone would be surprised to learn about you: I was a Pan Am flight attendant in NYC back in the glory days of flying.
What makes someone fabulous: Silent confidence.