Dr. Paula Petry

Dr. Paula Petry

Dr. Paula Petry’s journey of self-discovery, healing, and personal empowerment began with the birth of her daughter, Alexandra, who was born with spina bifida. The lack of adequate healthcare and skilled providers in the Dominican Republic forced Paula to pave a new path not only for her daughter but for many others. She became a strong advocate for children with disabilities, forming what is now one of the strongest parent advocacy organizations in the country. She brought that knowledge and her passion for family-centered care services to her faculty position at the University of Miami, School of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics— for over a decade preparing pediatricians to work with children with special health care needs. Alexandra’s death at age twelve brought great loss, suffering, and new beginnings. On her journey to healing, Paula studied energy medicine, sound healing, and expressive arts. Her book, A Mother’s Courage to Awaken: Finding Hope and Inspiration from My Daughter in the Afterlife takes the reader along on her journey of self-discovery, empowerment, and hope.