Health Pro: Brother with Down Syndrome leads pediatrician into medical field

Dr. Angela Sibilia is a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine working at Pediatric in Brevard's Cocoa Beach location.
Dr. Angela Sibilia is a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine working at Pediatric in Brevard's Cocoa Beach location.

Dr. Angela Sibilia is a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine working at Pediatric in Brevard's Cocoa Beach location.

Q: Why did you go into this career?

A: I grew up in a fun, big Catholic family as the second-oldest of eight children. Having a younger brother with Down Syndrome inspired me to pursue a career in pediatrics. I share a deep compassion for families with special needs and firmly believe in empowering all children to reach their full potential.

Q: What services do you provide?

A: As a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine, I provide many services, including:

  • All pediatric medical care from 0-21 years old.

  • Wellness child checks.

  • Immunizations and preventative health care.

  • Sports-related injuries.

  • Nutrition counseling.

  • Same day sick visits.

  • Telemedicine visits for selected conditions.

  • Free newborn class monthly.

  • In-office procedures such as: circumcisions, wart removal, osteopathic therapy etc...

Q: What makes this area of medicine fulfilling for you?

A: I love guiding new parents through the newborn period and the early steps of their baby's development. I also enjoy relating to older children by helping them through sports injuries and educating them on proper preventative strategies and nutrition.

Q: When did you realize this was the right medical career path for you?

A: I went into college thinking that I wanted to work with children in the medical field and I never looked back.

Q: What’s the latest advancement in your field that will benefit patients?

  • Concussion back-to-play protocols.

  • Back to sleep campaign to reduce sudden infant death.

  • Meningitis B vaccine to reduce meningitis and brain damage (especially in college students).

  • Early introduction of foods to avoid allergies (like nuts).

Q: Best advice for current and potential patients?

A: Be an advocate for your child.

I would recommend a wholistic approach to balancing your lifestyle: Strong family, friends (and lots of laughter) for emotional well-being and nutrition and exercise for physical health

Q: Anything else you’d like to add?

A: My husband and I love living on Florida's Space Coast. From the friendly people we have met to surfing the waves along Cocoa Beach, it truly is a great place to be.

Get to Know Your Health Pro

Name: Dr. Angela Sibilia, DO

Where are you based: Pediatrics in Brevard, 699 W. Cocoa Beach Cswy., Suite 401, Cocoa Beach, FL 32931

Education: Bachelor's in Biology at the University of Dayton; Ohio University Medical School.

Professional Background: Pediatrician for 5+ years

Contact: Phone: (321) 784 5437

On the Web: https://www.pedsinbrevard.com/

This article originally appeared on Florida Today: Dr. Angela Sibilia, DO works at Pediatric in Brevard's Cocoa Beach office