July 20, 2011

For this week's segment of Martha Jefferson Healthwise, CBS19's Stephanie Satchell introduces a new doctor at the Pediatric Associates of Charlottesville.

Doctor Sarah Knight says she is excited to play a role in keeping kids in the area well.

"I think establishing that relationship early on helps them to feel comfortable with someone, so that when problems come up they're easily ready to talk to someone," said Knight. Knight says she has seen her share of youth health problems. She recently traveled to a Ugandan Hospital where she helped to treat sick children.

"They were frequently out of life saving things like IV fluids or antibiotics and it was a really humbling experience as a physician to have all this knowledge be able to help people but not have the tools to do what is needed," said Knight. She also taught children at a school in Malawi.

"I feel like a pediatrician is a teacher for their families as they're going through their lives and learning about what they need to do to be healthy," said Knight. She says both experiences will make her a better pediatrician.

"I think that perspective on global health and being able to appreciate what we have here in the US is something that motivates me throughout the day," said Knight.

This is Knight's first week, however she says she is already looking forward to the days and months ahead where she will meet new patients and keep their young bodies healthy as they grow.