About Amanda Jimenez
Amanda’s roots in the Finger Lakes Region of Upstate NY, along with her family’s hardworking nature, has left her with an appreciation for the simple things in life. As a child, it was arts, crafts and climbing trees. Amanda’s adolescence as a high-level gymnast brought more life lessons than can be put into words - one key element was understanding the need for the human body to move, and this has been carried out with her love of exercise and running. “I ran my first marathon in Chicago in 2013 simply to prove that I could do it. The purpose of my second marathon in 2015 was to enjoy my new state of NC and dedicate time and space in my busy life for reflection for anyone facing a health struggle in my circle of family and friends,” says Amanda.
Amanda attended Springfield College in Massachusetts for her undergraduate degree (where she and Nelson met) and the University of New England for Medical School, graduating as a physician in 2009. “My favorite thing about medical school was living in Maine. Nature (especially the coast) and time became my favorite things outside of my focus in medicine.”
During the years of 2009-2015, Amanda completed her Internal Medicine, Pulmonary and Critical Care medical training in Massachusetts. Thinking of the long hours and fatigue in this high-pressure scenario, Amanda says, “My pups (Cody and Mia) got me through that training. Coming home to them wagging their tails and showing unconditional love saved me from myself. I know that without them, I would not have been able to find a healthy balance.”
Amanda thought Nelson was crazy when he asked her about getting a third dog, but, they are a couple accustomed to sacrifice to follow their dreams. Knowing that Nelson wanted to learn more advanced dog training with a German Shepard, Amanda recalls: “Next thing I knew, we were bringing Jeter home.” Now, a few months later and with a running partner in Jeter on the horizon, she says: “I can’t imagine not having Jeter. To be a witness to Nelson’s passion and watch all of this evolve is truly one of the most rewarding and spectacular times in my life. I am excited for others to experience Nelson’s ability and passion.”
