About Us
Our Story
Wee Care Pediatrics has been a staple in the community since 2001.
Founded by Dr. James (Tony) Bakerink, the practice was located on the outskirts of a rapidly expanding southwest area of the city at that time.
Although Dr. Bakerink grew up in Las Vegas, Nevada, he was born in Elko, Nevada, and spent a lot of time there as a kid growing up. It was during this time, where he came to appreciate the small town values, that would lay the foundation for how the practice would evolve. Years later, while in his last year of medical school, he would go back to Elko, as a soon to be young doctor, and experience first hand what it was to be a small town country doctor. Although, after completing his residency in pediatrics, he returned to his family here in the Las Vegas community, he never forgot that time aged feel of what it was to care for your patients as if they were a part of your own family.
Years later, upon starting Wee Care Pediatrics, he learned and knew that “If we were going to hold true to our values, and create a pediatric practice with staying power, then we knew that our practice should focus, not just on the health and well-being of all of our children, but in addition, to humility, compassion, kindness and integrity. In essence, the humanity in all children”. So with these values in mind Wee Care Pediatrics was born.
We are so proud of what we have created. Holding true to these beliefs throughout our many years has served to sustain us and make us a pillar in our community.
We are so thankful for the unique opportunity to care for our wonderful children and families, and we hope to continue to care for them and watch them grow for many more years to come.
Sincerely,
Dr. Bakerink
Our Why
Why are we here?
We are here because we have a unique opportunity to impact and change the lives of children through the creation of long-lasting human bonds.
We do not just take care of children. Through us, through even our smallest acts of kindness, we touch the lives of each child who comes through our doors and in doing so, we plant the seeds of joy and caring that we hope will foster within each of them, the same sense of kindness as they grow and enter into the world…
We touch lives.
Because of our children, we become better individuals. It is through them and because of them that we get to daily improve upon who we are. In this way we refine our art of being thoughtful, the skills of anticipating their needs, and reap the reward of which comes from cultivating the innocent beauty found within the hearts of all children.
Caring for our children the way we do, simply makes us better people.
We do not just talk about acts of kindness, but instead, thoughtfully and intentionally we create them. It is the essence of who we are.
We do not compete against others, but only amongst ourselves to become even better today than we were yesterday. This is our way. And in this way, the purpose of what we do is to become that small difference in a child’s life, that in turn, may make all the difference in a child’s life.
Meet
Dr. Bakerink
Hello, I am Doctor Bakerink.
I am very happy to welcome you to our website and to be able to introduce you to Wee Care Pediatrics. We have been in Las Vegas since I founded the practice back in 2001. Since that time, we have expanded to four Wee Care locations throughout the valley, as well as Over the Rainbow Pediatric Urgent Care.
I was born in Elko, Nevada and moved to Las Vegas as a child. I completed my undergraduate training at UNLV and attended the University at Reno for Medical school. I then went away for several years to UC-Davis, California, where I completed my residency in Pediatrics. I returned home, where I have practiced here locally since 1997. I am the proud Father of two wonderful children. Both of whom are UNLV alumni, with my son following in his father’s footsteps as a young Doctor currently in his Residency program in Iowa.
In addition to my full-time commitment to Wee Care Pediatrics, I have always been interested in serving underprivileged children. I am proud to have been part of developing the medical clinic within the women’s Shadetree homeless shelter, where I cared for homeless children for 10 years. I have served on international medical missions and currently at Wee Care, we are involved in several international projects helping children in Brazil, Africa and Haiti.
I am the author of The Simple Pediatric Series, specifically the book “Just the Basics, Baby”. Outside of Wee Care Pediatrics, I am an outdoor enthusiast. I enjoy hiking, camping, sailing and I travel as much as possible. I read extensively, play the drums and even used to be in a rock band (a long time ago).
I am very proud to welcome you. All of us here at Wee Care Pediatrics look forward to hopefully getting to know you and your children.
Sincerely,
James (Tony) Bakerink MD
Dr. Bakerink’s
Awards
Best of Las Vegas – Silver (2024)
Best of Las Vegas – Bronze (2023)
Desert Companion Magazine-Top Doctors (2022)
Nevada Magazine-Top Pediatricians (2021)
Vegas Inc. Magazine-Top Doctors (2020)
Desert Companion Magazine-Top Doctors (2020)
Vegas Seven Magazine-Top Doctors (2017)
Certificate of Commendation-Silver Syringe award (2016)
U.S. Senatorial Recognition-Outstanding Physician Champion (2016)
American Red Cross Everyday Hero (2016)
Outstanding Physician Campion-Silver Syringe Award (2015)
America’s Top Pediatricians (2009)
Las Vegas Life Magazine-Top Doctors (2006)
Las Vegas Life Magazine- “The Best Doctors” – Honorable mention (2006)
Summerlin Magazine- “Top 100 Doctors” (2005)
Summerlin Magazine- “Top 100 Doctors” (2004)
Las Vegas Life Magazine- “The Best Doctors” – Honorable mention (2000)
Our doctors and providers
We take extraordinary pride in our team, and we are proud to say that we select our staff for their compassion, friendliness and dedication to providing only the best care for your children. At Wee Care Pediatrics, our staff are vigilant at maintaining that high level of quality care and kindness that we are so well known for.
Our special team approach is reflected in our Core values that, as a practice, is integral to creating a warm and unique experience for all who come through our doors, whether big or small.
Our Providers are all highly trained professionals, who are accredited with each of their boards specifically. All of the providers are specialists in the field of Pediatrics from the ages of birth all the way through eighteen years of age. Each provider is mandated to maintain a program of continued education, so that your child will always receive the most up to date and accurate Pediatric care available.
Dr. Tony Bakerink
Pediatrician
Dr. Bakerink, also known as Dr. B, is the founder and owner of Wee Care Pediatrics. He got his undergraduate start at the University of Nevada Las Vegas and went on to attend the Medical School at University at Reno. He then completed his pediatrics residency at UC Davis. Afterward, he returned home to Las Vegas to begin practicing pediatrics in 1997. Four years later in 2001, he would start his practice, Wee Care Pediatrics.
Dr. B, in addition to his full-time dedication to Wee Care Pediatrics, has been passionate about giving to underprivileged children and has participated in international projects in Brazil, Africa, and Haiti.
He is a proud father of three and is an outdoor enthusiast, often going on runs, hiking, camping, and exploring the great outdoors.
Dr. RICHARD POWELL
Pediatrician
Dr. Powell has had a long and varied career as a pediatrician. He has worked as a hospitalist, outpatient general pediatrician, telemedicine pediatrician, and civilian pediatrician caring for the children of the United States military personnel. Dr. Powell is the newest pediatrician to join the Wee Care family.
Dr. Powell is originally from Chicago, Illinois and he received his medical degree from the University of Illinois in Chicago. Dr. Powell also obtained a Master’s Degree in Nutrition and Functional Medicine to further his understanding of how our nutrition and environmental exposures affect our health. After living and practicing in Miami and Chicago he started his civilian, military career working on a submarine base in Groton, Connecticut, and at the National Naval Medical Center and Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland.
While working for the United States military, Dr. Powell worked with the pediatric fitness team to help children with weight and nutrition challenges, taught pediatric advanced life support (PALS) courses, and was the medical director of the Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) which helped to ensure that the military family members with special needs would be placed in locations that could care for all of their medical issues. Dr. Powell relocated to Las Vegas, Nevada three years ago to enhance his love of the great outdoors. When not working, Dr. Powell enjoys hiking, exercising, playing tennis, and skiing at local resorts.
Andrea Singer
Nurse Practitioner
TISHA FUJINO
Nurse Practitioner
Tisha is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and has spent her entire nursing career caring for children in Las Vegas. After receiving her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from UNLV she spent 5 years as a Registered Nurse on the pediatric floor at Sunrise Children’s Hospital during which she completed her Master of Science in Nursing also at UNLV.
Her first position as a Nurse Practitioner was at Children’s Urology Associates where she spent 9 years in the Dysfunctional Voiding Clinic helping kids with incontinence and then the next 8 years at Desert Pediatrics before joining the family at Wee Care Pediatrics.
Originally from Hawaii, Tisha also holds a Bachelor of Science in Food Science and Human Nutrition-Dietetics from the University of Hawaii and has worked as a Nutrition Counselor at the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) in Honolulu.
In her free time, Tisha enjoys hiking, traveling, reading, and going to sporting events including supporting her son at archery competitions and her daughter with travel hockey.
Teresa Baker
Physician Assistant
Teresa has been a certified Physician Assistant in primary care since graduating from the top of her class with a Master’s degree in Physician Assistant Studies at Touro University, Nevada in 2018. Prior to her career as a PA, she was active in the Las Vegas valley community for 15 years, and in Southern California for 15 years prior, with a particular passion for underserved and underrepresented youth.
She has worked or volunteered with the Laurel Foundation, serving children with HIV/AIDS, the Special Olympics of Southern Nevada, serving children and adults with mental or physical challenges, and The Shade Tree shelter for homeless women and children. During her training at Touro University, she was the volunteer coordinator, organizing opportunities for her classmates to engage with the community.
Teresa has a background in entertainment and hospitality, and has worked around the world. She has traveled to 47 states and US territories, and over 40 countries. This shaped her ideals and values, and influenced her decision to serve on a medical mission in Cambodia in 2018, that brought healthcare to thousands of men, women, and children who had never received care before. She is excited to bring that passion and dedication to Wee Care Pediatrics.
ERIN PHILLIPS
Nurse Practitioner
Erin is one of our family nurse practitioners. She graduated from the University of Nevada, Reno in 2020 with her NP and also has a master’s in Nursing Education. Before transitioning into pediatrics, she spent 11 years working at the bedside in the neonatal intensive care unit. She is proud to have become part of the Wee Care team as she loves working with children.
Erin has three small children of her own, in which she spends many days volunteering at their elementary school. In her free time, she enjoys spending time watching Vegas Golden Knights games and vacationing with her family.
Erin is here for your family and is excited to meet you!
Lauren Riele
Physician Assistant
Lauren is a board-certified Physician Assistant. Originally from Ohio, she attended Miami University for her undergraduate degree in microbiology with a concentration in chemistry. She completed her medical education at Touro University Nevada with her Master’s in Physician Assistant Studies.
During her pediatric clinical rotations, she discovered her passion for promoting the health and well-being of this special population. She is thrilled to be joining Wee Care Pediatrics and serving the growing families in the community. In her spare time, she enjoys hiking and mountain biking with her husband, reading, golfing, and playing the violin.
Emily Merchen
Physician Assistant
Emily is a certified physician assistant who grew up in Nebraska, where she received an undergraduate degree in biology from Nebraska Wesleyan University. Throughout college, Emily spent multiple summers working on a healthcare team at a summer camp where her passion for kids grew. She has volunteered at free health clinics, various youth science events, and events for people with disabilities.
Before PA school, she worked in vaccine research at the University of Michigan. She attended Des Moines University in Iowa for PA school and then moved to Las Vegas with her fiance, looking for a career in which she could provide care to young patients. In her free time, she enjoys reading, spending time with her cats, and soaking up the Southwest sunshine.
Breanna Kennelly
Nurse Practitioner
Breanna is one of our Family Nurse Practitioners. She graduated from Chamberlain University in 2023 with her FNP and obtained double board certification with credentials from both the ANCC and the AANP. She also received a master’s degree in Executive Nursing with distinction in 2020 from Chamberlain University.
She initially started her nursing career in 2011 working in Pediatric Emergency/Trauma/Critical Care where she continues to specialize. She maintains current certifications in ACLS, PALS, TNCC & ENPC. Additionally, in 2024 she obtained certification through the American Academy of Facial Aesthetics for the administration of neurotoxins and dermal fillers for therapy and management of chronic conditions.
She enjoys quality family time with her family of 4. They enjoy travelling, boating, attending sports events like pro football and baseball, cooking, and family gatherings.
Dr. Maria Muyot
Pediatrician
Dr. Maria Muyot has been working as a Pediatrician for over 20 years, is board-certified by the American Board of Pediatrics and a proud Fellow of The American Academy of Pediatrics.
She received her undergraduate degree in Biology from the University of the Philippines. She later got into med school at the University of the East, Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Medical Center. After living and practicing in the Philippines, Chicago, and Mississippi, she moved to Las Vegas to work at Desert Pediatrics.
Over these past 20 years, Dr. Muyot describes her work in the pediatrics field as: “A very fulfilling and rewarding experience caring and advocating for children”.
She continues to aspire to work together with families and the medical community to build a strong and healthy foundation for future generations.
But wait, there’s more! When she’s not busy caring for the kids at Wee Care, Dr. Muyot enjoys movies and concerts, proving that even superheroes need some downtime.
Ian Childs
Physician Assistant
Ian has been practicing as a certified Physician Assistant in pediatrics since 2010. He completed his undergraduate pre-medical education at Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah where he also received a Bachelor of Arts degree in French Studies. Ian completed his medical education at the University of New England and received a Masters degree in Physician Assistant studies where he graduated in the top of his class. He is a PA member of the American Academy of Pediatrics and a member of the Society of Physician Assistants in Pediatrics.
When Ian is not at work, he enjoys spending time with his family and serving in his church community. He and his wife Alexis are proud parents of 5 children. Ian is an avid cyclist and can be found riding his bike to work a few days a week. Ian loves to be in nature, whether that be on his bike, hiking at Red Rock, or taking his family to the beach. Music is a passion for Ian. He enjoys playing guitar and enjoying music with friends and family.
Recently, Ian enjoyed an opportunity to bring his medical and french skills together to help provide medical care to under-served children in Port au Prince, Haiti during a medical mission trip.
Ian loves serving his little patients here in Las Vegas and has been privileged to watch them grow up healthy and strong over the past ten years that he’s been at Wee Care Pediatrics.
MEGAN WRIGHT
Nurse Practitioner
Megan Wright is originally from Houston, Texas. She has a Bachelor’s of Business Administration from Texas A&M University (2008), a Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing from Northwestern State University of Louisiana (2014), and a Master’s of Science in Nursing from the University of California, Davis. (2019)
Megan’s nursing career began in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, where she provided critical care to children for four years at Level 1 Trauma Centers, as well as Critical Care Burn Units, a passion she still holds. Since 2019, she has focused on preventive health and chronic disease management in Pediatric Primary Care. Megan is passionate about working with families to support their children’s health and well-being.
Outside of work, Megan has two children and a husband who she enjoys spending time with. Megan’s hobbies include hiking, exercising, and baking, particularly making sourdough bread. She is thrilled to be a part of the Wee Care Pediatrics and Over the Rainbow Pediatric Urgent Care teams and looks forward to fostering strong relationships with her patients and their families.
AMANDA KNOWLES
Physician Assistant
Amanda is a Las Vegas Native who received her Masters in Physician Assistant Studies from Touro University in 2017. She has been practicing in pediatrics ever since. Before PA school, she worked in physical therapy and was the athletic trainer at Palo Verde High School for 4.5 years after graduating summa cum laude with her Bachelor in Athletic Training from Southern Utah University in 2010. Both careers have offered her the ability to watch her patients grow over time which is her favorite part of practicing medicine. She is excited to continue that trend with the patients at Wee Care Pediatrics.
When not in the clinic you can find her with her high school sweetheart of a husband and their 3 boys and little daughter. She loves crafting adventures for her family both in town and with fun travels domestically and internationally. She also decorates sugar cookies for special celebrations and loves listening to podcasts or audiobooks.
Cynthia Javier
Nurse Practitioner
Cynthia Javier is one of our providers at Over The Rainbow Pediatric Urgent Care and has a love and passion for pediatrics. She was born and raised here in Las Vegas and a native to the Henderson community. She received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at University of Nevada, Las Vegas and graduated with her Masters of Science in Nursing at Chamberlain University as a Family Nurse Practitioner. With over 7 years of bedside experience, she has received countless Daisy Award nominations throughout her nursing career due to her commitment to providing compassionate care to patients and their family members. She is whole-heartedly invested in continuing to provide the best care and attention to your child and family as a Nurse Practitioner.
In her spare time, Cynthia is an avid baker and cook, writer, and loves to stay active through hiking, yoga, bootcamps, and indoor cycling. She is also a cellist and has played in UNLV’s Symphony Orchestra and chamber groups as a music performance major. Cynthia is happily married to her husband of 5 years and they have a rambunctious, energetic toddler together in addition to their two pups.
Cynthia has thoroughly enjoyed being part of Over the Rainbow and is here to care for the needs of your family and child.
Jean-Pierre Petrel
Physician Assistant
Jean-Pierre Petrel II was born and raised in Henderson, Nevada. He completed his undergraduate studies at Arizona State University and his Master’s and Physician Assistant programs at Touro University, Nevada.
He started with Wee Care Pediatrics in May 2024 after graduating in November 2023. Pierre is fully bilingual in Spanish and English and teaches self-defense for kids at a nonprofit gym in Henderson. When he’s not conducting physicals on babies, Pierre is practicing jiu-jitsu, learning to golf, and mountain biking. He loves to travel and hike.
Amanda Hellman
Nurse Practitioner
Amanda began her career in nursing working in orthopedics, emergency services, and occupational health. She received her Master’s Degree in Nursing from Chamberlain University, in order to be more involved in the treatment process and help manage the care of her patients. She is originally from the East Coast, but the love of the warm, sunny weather brought her to Las Vegas. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her husband, two teenage children, and two dogs. When Amanda is not working, she can be found cheering on her son’s hockey team, hiking, or doing yoga with her daughter. She also loves going to sporting events and listening to live music. Amanda is excited to be working at Over the Rainbow Urgent Care, where she can foster her passion for helping others.
Britney Simanek
Nurse Practitioner
Originally from Wisconsin, Britney and her family moved to Vegas for new opportunities. At a young age, Britney was blessed to care for her blind grandmother, which she wears as a badge of honor and would carry her forward in her healthcare career. She went to Nevada State University where she obtained her Bachelor’s in nursing and found a place where she belonged. Eventually, she obtained her Master’s degree at Touro University. Britney found her calling in pediatrics 6 years ago and has never looked back.
In her free time, she loves to read and cuddle up with her dogs. She enjoys exploring the outdoors, camping, dancing, and going to concerts.
Dr. Tony Bakerink
Pediatrician
Dr. Bakerink, also known as Dr. B, is the founder and owner of Wee Care Pediatrics. He got his undergraduate start at the University of Nevada Las Vegas and went on to attend the Medical School at University at Reno. He then completed his pediatrics residency at UC Davis. Afterward, he returned home to Las Vegas to begin practicing pediatrics in 1997. Four years later in 2001, he would start his practice, Wee Care Pediatrics.
Dr. B, in addition to his full-time dedication to Wee Care Pediatrics, has been passionate about giving to underprivileged children and has participated in international projects in Brazil, Africa, and Haiti.
He is a proud father of three and is an outdoor enthusiast, often going on runs, hiking, camping, and exploring the great outdoors.
Dr. Maria Muyot
Pediatrician
Dr. Maria Muyot has been working as a Pediatrician for over 20 years, is board-certified by the American Board of Pediatrics and a proud Fellow of The American Academy of Pediatrics.
She received her undergraduate degree in Biology from the University of the Philippines. She later got into med school at the University of the East, Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Medical Center. After living and practicing in the Philippines, Chicago, and Mississippi, she moved to Las Vegas to work at Desert Pediatrics.
Over these past 20 years, Dr. Muyot describes her work in the pediatrics field as: “A very fulfilling and rewarding experience caring and advocating for children”.
She continues to aspire to work together with families and the medical community to build a strong and healthy foundation for future generations.
But wait, there’s more! When she’s not busy caring for the kids at Wee Care, Dr. Muyot enjoys movies and concerts, proving that even superheroes need some downtime.
Dr. RICHARD POWELL
Pediatrician
Dr. Powell has had a long and varied career as a pediatrician. He has worked as a hospitalist, outpatient general pediatrician, telemedicine pediatrician, and civilian pediatrician caring for the children of the United States military personnel. Dr. Powell is the newest pediatrician to join the Wee Care family.
Dr. Powell is originally from Chicago, Illinois and he received his medical degree from the University of Illinois in Chicago. Dr. Powell also obtained a Master’s Degree in Nutrition and Functional Medicine to further his understanding of how our nutrition and environmental exposures affect our health. After living and practicing in Miami and Chicago he started his civilian, military career working on a submarine base in Groton, Connecticut, and at the National Naval Medical Center and Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland.
While working for the United States military, Dr. Powell worked with the pediatric fitness team to help children with weight and nutrition challenges, taught pediatric advanced life support (PALS) courses, and was the medical director of the Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) which helped to ensure that the military family members with special needs would be placed in locations that could care for all of their medical issues. Dr. Powell relocated to Las Vegas, Nevada three years ago to enhance his love of the great outdoors. When not working, Dr. Powell enjoys hiking, exercising, playing tennis, and skiing at local resorts.
Ian Childs
Physician Assistant
Ian has been practicing as a certified Physician Assistant in pediatrics since 2010. He completed his undergraduate pre-medical education at Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah where he also received a Bachelor of Arts degree in French Studies. Ian completed his medical education at the University of New England and received a Masters degree in Physician Assistant studies where he graduated in the top of his class. He is a PA member of the American Academy of Pediatrics and a member of the Society of Physician Assistants in Pediatrics.
When Ian is not at work, he enjoys spending time with his family and serving in his church community. He and his wife Alexis are proud parents of 5 children. Ian is an avid cyclist and can be found riding his bike to work a few days a week. Ian loves to be in nature, whether that be on his bike, hiking at Red Rock, or taking his family to the beach. Music is a passion for Ian. He enjoys playing guitar and enjoying music with friends and family.
Recently, Ian enjoyed an opportunity to bring his medical and french skills together to help provide medical care to under-served children in Port au Prince, Haiti during a medical mission trip.
Ian loves serving his little patients here in Las Vegas and has been privileged to watch them grow up healthy and strong over the past ten years that he’s been at Wee Care Pediatrics.
Andrea Singer
Nurse Practitioner
MEGAN WRIGHT
Nurse Practitioner
Megan Wright is originally from Houston, Texas. She has a Bachelor’s of Business Administration from Texas A&M University (2008), a Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing from Northwestern State University of Louisiana (2014), and a Master’s of Science in Nursing from the University of California, Davis. (2019)
Megan’s nursing career began in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, where she provided critical care to children for four years at Level 1 Trauma Centers, as well as Critical Care Burn Units, a passion she still holds. Since 2019, she has focused on preventive health and chronic disease management in Pediatric Primary Care. Megan is passionate about working with families to support their children’s health and well-being.
Outside of work, Megan has two children and a husband who she enjoys spending time with. Megan’s hobbies include hiking, exercising, and baking, particularly making sourdough bread. She is thrilled to be a part of the Wee Care Pediatrics and Over the Rainbow Pediatric Urgent Care teams and looks forward to fostering strong relationships with her patients and their families.
TISHA FUJINO
Nurse Practitioner
Tisha is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and has spent her entire nursing career caring for children in Las Vegas. After receiving her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from UNLV she spent 5 years as a Registered Nurse on the pediatric floor at Sunrise Children’s Hospital during which she completed her Master of Science in Nursing also at UNLV.
Her first position as a Nurse Practitioner was at Children’s Urology Associates where she spent 9 years in the Dysfunctional Voiding Clinic helping kids with incontinence and then the next 8 years at Desert Pediatrics before joining the family at Wee Care Pediatrics.
Originally from Hawaii, Tisha also holds a Bachelor of Science in Food Science and Human Nutrition-Dietetics from the University of Hawaii and has worked as a Nutrition Counselor at the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) in Honolulu.
In her free time, Tisha enjoys hiking, traveling, reading, and going to sporting events including supporting her son at archery competitions and her daughter with travel hockey.
AMANDA KNOWLES
Physician Assistant
Amanda is a Las Vegas Native who received her Masters in Physician Assistant Studies from Touro University in 2017. She has been practicing in pediatrics ever since. Before PA school, she worked in physical therapy and was the athletic trainer at Palo Verde High School for 4.5 years after graduating summa cum laude with her Bachelor in Athletic Training from Southern Utah University in 2010. Both careers have offered her the ability to watch her patients grow over time which is her favorite part of practicing medicine. She is excited to continue that trend with the patients at Wee Care Pediatrics.
When not in the clinic you can find her with her high school sweetheart of a husband and their 3 boys and little daughter. She loves crafting adventures for her family both in town and with fun travels domestically and internationally. She also decorates sugar cookies for special celebrations and loves listening to podcasts or audiobooks.
Teresa Baker
Physician Assistant
Teresa has been a certified Physician Assistant in primary care since graduating from the top of her class with a Master’s degree in Physician Assistant Studies at Touro University, Nevada in 2018. Prior to her career as a PA, she was active in the Las Vegas valley community for 15 years, and in Southern California for 15 years prior, with a particular passion for underserved and underrepresented youth.
She has worked or volunteered with the Laurel Foundation, serving children with HIV/AIDS, the Special Olympics of Southern Nevada, serving children and adults with mental or physical challenges, and The Shade Tree shelter for homeless women and children. During her training at Touro University, she was the volunteer coordinator, organizing opportunities for her classmates to engage with the community.
Teresa has a background in entertainment and hospitality, and has worked around the world. She has traveled to 47 states and US territories, and over 40 countries. This shaped her ideals and values, and influenced her decision to serve on a medical mission in Cambodia in 2018, that brought healthcare to thousands of men, women, and children who had never received care before. She is excited to bring that passion and dedication to Wee Care Pediatrics.
Cynthia Javier
Nurse Practitioner
Cynthia Javier is one of our providers at Over The Rainbow Pediatric Urgent Care and has a love and passion for pediatrics. She was born and raised here in Las Vegas and a native to the Henderson community. She received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at University of Nevada, Las Vegas and graduated with her Masters of Science in Nursing at Chamberlain University as a Family Nurse Practitioner. With over 7 years of bedside experience, she has received countless Daisy Award nominations throughout her nursing career due to her commitment to providing compassionate care to patients and their family members. She is whole-heartedly invested in continuing to provide the best care and attention to your child and family as a Nurse Practitioner.
In her spare time, Cynthia is an avid baker and cook, writer, and loves to stay active through hiking, yoga, bootcamps, and indoor cycling. She is also a cellist and has played in UNLV’s Symphony Orchestra and chamber groups as a music performance major. Cynthia is happily married to her husband of 5 years and they have a rambunctious, energetic toddler together in addition to their two pups.
Cynthia has thoroughly enjoyed being part of Over the Rainbow and is here to care for the needs of your family and child.
Jean-Pierre Petrel
Physician Assistant
Jean-Pierre Petrel II was born and raised in Henderson, Nevada. He completed his undergraduate studies at Arizona State University and his Master’s and Physician Assistant programs at Touro University, Nevada.
He started with Wee Care Pediatrics in May 2024 after graduating in November 2023. Pierre is fully bilingual in Spanish and English and teaches self-defense for kids at a nonprofit gym in Henderson. When he’s not conducting physicals on babies, Pierre is practicing jiu-jitsu, learning to golf, and mountain biking. He loves to travel and hike.
Lauren Riele
Physician Assistant
Lauren is a board-certified Physician Assistant. Originally from Ohio, she attended Miami University for her undergraduate degree in microbiology with a concentration in chemistry. She completed her medical education at Touro University Nevada with her Master’s in Physician Assistant Studies.
During her pediatric clinical rotations, she discovered her passion for promoting the health and well-being of this special population. She is thrilled to be joining Wee Care Pediatrics and serving the growing families in the community. In her spare time, she enjoys hiking and mountain biking with her husband, reading, golfing, and playing the violin.
Amanda Hellman
Nurse Practitioner
Amanda began her career in nursing working in orthopedics, emergency services, and occupational health. She received her Master’s Degree in Nursing from Chamberlain University, in order to be more involved in the treatment process and help manage the care of her patients. She is originally from the East Coast, but the love of the warm, sunny weather brought her to Las Vegas. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her husband, two teenage children, and two dogs. When Amanda is not working, she can be found cheering on her son’s hockey team, hiking, or doing yoga with her daughter. She also loves going to sporting events and listening to live music. Amanda is excited to be working at Over the Rainbow Urgent Care, where she can foster her passion for helping others.
Emily Merchen
Physician Assistant
Emily is a certified physician assistant who grew up in Nebraska, where she received an undergraduate degree in biology from Nebraska Wesleyan University. Throughout college, Emily spent multiple summers working on a healthcare team at a summer camp where her passion for kids grew. She has volunteered at free health clinics, various youth science events, and events for people with disabilities.
Before PA school, she worked in vaccine research at the University of Michigan. She attended Des Moines University in Iowa for PA school and then moved to Las Vegas with her fiance, looking for a career in which she could provide care to young patients. In her free time, she enjoys reading, spending time with her cats, and soaking up the Southwest sunshine.
Britney Simanek
Nurse Practitioner
Originally from Wisconsin, Britney and her family moved to Vegas for new opportunities. At a young age, Britney was blessed to care for her blind grandmother, which she wears as a badge of honor and would carry her forward in her healthcare career. She went to Nevada State University where she obtained her Bachelor’s in nursing and found a place where she belonged. Eventually, she obtained her Master’s degree at Touro University. Britney found her calling in pediatrics 6 years ago and has never looked back.
In her free time, she loves to read and cuddle up with her dogs. She enjoys exploring the outdoors, camping, dancing, and going to concerts.
Breanna Kennelly
Nurse Practitioner
Breanna is one of our Family Nurse Practitioners. She graduated from Chamberlain University in 2023 with her FNP and obtained double board certification with credentials from both the ANCC and the AANP. She also received a master’s degree in Executive Nursing with distinction in 2020 from Chamberlain University.
She initially started her nursing career in 2011 working in Pediatric Emergency/Trauma/Critical Care where she continues to specialize. She maintains current certifications in ACLS, PALS, TNCC & ENPC. Additionally, in 2024 she obtained certification through the American Academy of Facial Aesthetics for the administration of neurotoxins and dermal fillers for therapy and management of chronic conditions.
She enjoys quality family time with her family of 4. They enjoy travelling, boating, attending sports events like pro football and baseball, cooking, and family gatherings.
