Charlene Vargas, MD, FAAP

My favorite animated movie is Finding Nemo because it has an appropriate blend of humor, family values, friendship, and shows the result of persistence and determination when trying to accomplish something.

The book that holds a special place for me is The Children’s Bible because I was brought up with Christian values, trusting in the one true God and giving Him priority above all, and it guides us on how to live properly.

My favorite childhood toy was Jigsaw puzzles because it is fun, challenging, and gives the satisfaction of accomplishing a goal.

My greatest inspiration is my Mom because she taught me the values of kindness, courage, determination, and integrity.

Outside of work I like spending time with my family, participating in church activities, listening to music, cooking, sightseeing, bicycling, and playing RPG video games.

What inspired me to work in Pediatrics was my interest in the biological sciences, and the desire to help and make a difference in a young person’s life by promoting health maintenance early on.

What sets me apart in my profession and in return helps me build rapport with patients and their families is that I listen and give time to them, even if I have to go through all the details, so that I can properly address their questions or concerns.

As a Pediatrician, it is integral to our line of work to deal with patients with special needs. For that special group of patients I make sure that I give appropriate time for them during office visits and provide the referrals for the appropriate resources or services they need.