Hey there, Jessica!

My little family includes my husband, Stephen, and our three-year-old goldendoodle, Chai. Stephen and I got married in August 2024 and have been together since August 2015. We met through his twin sister after she and I bonded over scoliosis and spinal fusion surgery. Now 11 years later, I have a sister-in-law and husband😊 

I grew up in Chino Hills. I love this city! My parents are Michael and Sara. I have one sister, Angelica, who is almost two years older than me. We both married our high school sweethearts, and our weddings were 3 months apart! 

As a kid, I wanted to be a director or YouTuber, though my family always said I’d make a great nurse. I’d borrow my family’s camcorder, write little scripts, and get my cousins and friends to film with me. I was inspired by shows like iCarly and other creators on YouTube. In high school, those two sides of me came together when I started documenting my scoliosis surgery journey online and connected with people around the world. I’ve always been more comfortable behind the scenes, but I’ve learned you never know how your story might help someone else. We’re never alone!

I’m proud of how driven I’ve been since I was young. In high school, I knew that if I wanted a car, I’d need to buy it myself, so I got my driver's license at 16 and started my first job the very next day! My first job was at a Yogurtland, where I somehow became a supervisor in high school. I worked two jobs to pay my way through college and eventually landed my first full-time position at CHOC Children’s. I’m grateful to my parents for teaching me how to be independent while still supporting me every step of the way.

Last year my husband Stephen and I went on a pilgrimage to Italy with 33 people we didn’t know. After a year full of big life moments in 2024 and some unexpected challenges in 2025, we felt a strong pull to trust and go, especially during the Jubilee year. It was his first time in Italy, and earlier in the year he completed OCIA and received his sacraments. We visited Turin, Milan, Assisi, Florence, Pisa, and Rome, and even saw Pope Leo! This trip was more than we could have ever imagined, and I still carry what I learned and experienced into my daily life.

Ever since I was born, my dad has made sure we go to at least one Dodgers game every year as a family. Even during COVID when we couldn’t attend games, he took us to the Dodger Stadium gift shop just so we could still step foot on Dodgers territory. He witnessed Kirk Gibson’s home run in 1988 World Series and Freddie Freeman’s World Series Game 1 Grand Slam. He’s the biggest sports fan I know and LOVES Los Angeles.

I’ve lived in Chino Hills my whole life but didn’t start going to these spots until AA introduced them to me! I love Rendez-vous Cafe! It has such a sweet, small-town feel, calming instrumental music, and Kathy who runs it is such a joy! She’s always got my call in order ready to go in minutes when I’m heading into the office. My go-to order is the Brulée Latte with Bagel and Lox.

For lunch I love going to Vanilla Fish for “the lunch special.” My go-to order is the Bento 3 Combo: Spicy Tuna, Yaki Gyoza, with Chicken Teriyaki and it’s served with rice, miso soup, and a salad!

My weekends are usually spent with my family. We love the beach! Sundays are my time to slow down and recharge. In my downtime, I’m usually listening to podcasts, or learning something new. I’m not much of a TV person, and I’ve been that way since I was a kid, so if you ask me about the latest movie or actor, I’ll probably be a little lost...but I love watching YouTube and TikTok!

Learning multiple languages, especially Spanish. My parents are both fluent, and my Abuelita used to teach me when I was little, until I stopped practicing and lost it. She would always tell me that one day, when I grew up and got a job, I would wish I had learned Spanish, and she was right. Now when we spend time together, she helps me practice Spanish and cooking skills, like making chicken albondigas.

Outside of work, I love to be out exploring new places and enjoy making short videos about recent travels, life moments, and things I’m learning or rediscovering in my 20s. It’s fun to look back on all the memories as a digital scrapbook. This past year, I’ve also started reading more and really enjoy learning new topics, especially about faith and history.

My dog Chai 😊 She’s three years old and still as all the puppy energy! She’s so sweet, a little sassy at times, and very smart. She loves people and is so silly. I love her so much! Her birthday is the day before mine.

Vienna by Billy Joel. It reminds me to slow down, trust, and enjoy every season of life. It’s such an uplifting song and helps me stay grateful for all the little moments and blessings.

Stay curious, figure out your “why” and trust that you have gifts that are meant to be used. Also don’t forget to build relationships with your coworkers, it makes everything more enjoyable.

I volunteer as a catechism teacher for a group of third graders. It’s pushed me out of my comfort zone when it comes to presenting and has given me a whole new appreciation for every teacher I had growing up. From lesson planning to keeping students engaged, it’s been such a rewarding and meaningful part of my week.

One of my non-negotiables is starting my mornings with prayer and reflection. That quiet time helps me feel grounded and grateful before the day gets busy, and it helps me show up better in every area of life (family, work, friendships, etc.)

I love Dancing with the Stars. I grew up as a dancer, so I enjoy the show and all the personalities! I’ve even been to some of the live tour performances and met some of the cast members! For podcasts, I really enjoy the Bible in a Year with Fr. Mike Schmitz.