Monica Blanton-Birzer, MS, PA-C, is a highly skilled physician assistant on our neurosurgery team, bringing over 25 years of experience across multiple specialties, including neurology, orthopedic surgery, and health education. Her care philosophy focuses on treating every patient with dignity, respect, and compassion, ensuring they feel seen and heard. Monica is dedicated to creating a welcoming, inclusive environment where patients are encouraged to be their authentic selves, providing a safe space for comprehensive and compassionate care. Monica’s passion for healthcare began in her childhood, where her fascination with biology and the human body led her toward a career as a physician assistant. Her journey in healthcare has been both rewarding and fulfilling, especially as she has the privilege of performing spine surgeries. For Monica, each patient encounter is an opportunity to make a positive impact, and she never forgets the honor of being entrusted with their care. In her current role, Monica works closely with her team, specializing in minimally invasive to complex spinal procedures. She prides herself on being accessible to both patients and fellow healthcare providers, offering guidance and support when needed. Monica appreciates the patient-centered culture at St. Francis, where staff are engaged and supportive, and where she enjoys building meaningful relationships with her patients. In her spare time, Monica enjoys a variety of hobbies. She finds a strong connection between her love of embroidery and her passion for surgery, often joking that she was "meant to sew." In addition to embroidery, she enjoys painting ceramics and has several craft projects she hopes to complete someday. Monica studies Spanish daily, with the goal of retiring in Europe, where her brother and much of her family live in Germany. For physical activity, she loves swimming, hiking, and practicing yoga, which she finds especially beneficial for back pain. Her love for animals is exemplified by her mini-Dachshund, who underwent spinal surgery in 2024 after a disc herniation caused paralysis in his hind legs. This experience gave Monica a unique perspective on spinal procedures through the veterinary world, deepening her appreciation for both her profession and personal interests. Always eager to learn and grow, she embraces new challenges in her medical career, hobbies, and language studies.