Author Bio

Sandy Knauf

It's personally satisfying to make a difference in someone else's life.

Sandy, a certified Family Nurse Practitioner, has been serving in the health care community since 1994, working in family practice, pediatrics and retail health care. She's also the mother of three girls.

How she empowers women and girls: 

For Sandy, empowering girls starts at home, where she encourages her daughters to make good choices that will shape their lives. She also developed and conducted a women's health program at a local fitness club and is an adjunct faculty member at Malone University.

Why she wants to make a difference: 

"It is personally satisfying to watch someone overcome obstacles. So many people have never been taught the importance of taking care of themselves both physically and emotionally."

On knowing: 

"When I was a young woman, I had a lot of questions and nowhere to turn. I have three daughters who will be going through this stage. I want them to have the opportunity to get questions answered accurately and to learn that women can be in charge of their own personal health."

What she hopes to change: 

"I have seen firsthand the outcomes of lack of knowledge of personal health: unplanned pregnancy, STDs, the emotional feeling of having no sense of control over one's body, or being ashamed of certain aspects of being female."

Her goals for young women: 

"I would like to make a difference in the lives of young women, giving them the power to make informed decisions about the care of their bodies, teaching them to respect the amazing creation they really are."

When she isn't at work (or answering your questions):

Sandy spends her time with friends and family, exercising, baking, volunteering at her children's school, coaching youth cheer and shopping.