Hi! My name is Miranda Nelson. I am 37 and live on the Mississippi Gulf Coast in a neat little city called Ocean Springs. I am mom to four daughters ages 17, 15, 13, and 10.

Professionally, I am a certified medical coder and a chronic care manager for a local internal medicine physician. As a coder, I basically audit medical charts and assign procedure and diagnosis codes. These are sent to the patient's insurance company for payment. Since I also had 13 years experience as a medical assistant and am currently studying health promotion as one of my emphasis areas, I was recently asked to launch their chronic care program. I personally manage over 100 patients and tend to their every medical need from coordinating appointments, managing their medications, and even just being there for emotional support. I am very blessed to say that I truly love my work.

As a student, am working towards a Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies with an emphasis in psychology, health promotion, and instructional design. I am currently a senior and on track to graduate next May. Upon completion, I plan to continue my education by bridging over to a Master of Arts in Teaching-Secondary. My final goal is to teach high school science.

When I am not working or studying, I stay busy supporting my daughters. My oldest is in choir, so her spring is crazy busy with performances. In the fall, I stay busy being a marching band mom. My 3rd daughter has autism, but still manages well and is in beginner band. The baby is still trying to nail down her activity of choice. We also stay busy with girl scouts and random adventures.

We are also very active in our church. I have been the lead pre-school teacher there for 6 years. My oldest helps in the elementary class and my second is in the nursery. We also stay busy with other ministries within the church.

Last, I volunteer to do a lot with the schools and often chaperone trips. I am on the parent committee for our local Boys and Girls Club, an active member of Phi Theta Kappa, and help coordinate other charities through out the year.