Dr. Natalie Turner
During winters in Wisconsin, Natalie learned to sew from her mother and grandmother when she was “old enough not to poke myself with a needle.”
She figures that was around fifth or sixth grade, but it was among the many things her family wanted her and her sister to experience and try.
In time, Natalie discovered it was great for her, since she can’t sit still.
“I always like to be doing something so you can sew and have a conversation, or sew and watch TV,” she says. “You can have your hands busy, then you get something really cool at the end.”
Her grandmother was prolific, making quilts and jackets for the children in the family. In school, Natalie made some basic squares and a pillowcase. But her first major project wasn’t until she was about to leave for college. Over the course of three months, she made herself a blanket.
She still has it, Natalie says, though its dimensions reflect the non-traditional size of a bed in a college dorm room.
Her skill, though, was useful in college; she was counted upon to sew costumes in her sorority. Then, after college, she started to find comfort in sewing.
It helped that she had an important tool; her grandmother gifted her a sewing machine, the one she used for many years.
“It still works,” Natalie says. “She keeps everything in incredible condition. Why get a newer one when this one still works?”
Asked if there’s sentimental value, Natalie adds, “Yes, because she’s the one that showed me how to use it, and she still has all the original attachments. I haven’t had to buy anything.”
In the winter of 2023, Natalie took some classes on tailoring clothes, learning different angles and recognizing patterns.
“You get to cut all these shapes, and then you get to lay them out in a bunch of different ways,” she says. “Then you can rearrange things. It’s artistic, it’s fun, it’s very unique.”
Natalie is working on a coat for herself, but she also makes gifts — like baby blankets — for others.
After going to college in Nebraska, doing residency in Ohio, and working in Michigan, Natalie will be less than two hours from her family now. Wherever she ends up living, though, Natalie’s sewing machine and setup will be a key part of her place.
“I do art projects all day at work,” she says, referring to her work at Camp Smile, “so this is like the same sort of thing.”
More about Natalie
What superpower do you wish you had?
The ability to fly. How cool would that be? I want to go to Greece!
What is one of your actual superpowers (something that makes you special and unique)?
I am a great baker! My family says I make the best cinnamon rolls.
If you had a free day to do anything, how would you spend it?
I love being outdoors and taking my Springer Spaniel on hikes. She’s a bird dog and loves to chase after animals and sticks.
Why do you love your job?
Every day is different and always so much fun! I love being able to build relationships with patients and their families.
PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND:
Dr. Natalie Turner is a highly skilled pediatric dentist dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive dental care to children. She obtained her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from Creighton University School of Dentistry in 2021. Following her dental education, Dr. Turner pursued specialized training in pediatric dentistry at the University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences, where she completed a fully accredited Pediatric Dental Residency Program and earned a Master of Oral Biology.
PROFESSIONAL INVOLVEMENT:
Dr. Turner is actively involved in professional organizations, including the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, Michigan Academy of Dentistry, and Michigan Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. She is committed to staying updated with the latest advancements in pediatric dentistry and holds memberships in various dental associations.
CURRICULUM VITAE:
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Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science and Pre-Health Professions and German Studies from Creighton University, Omaha, NE, 2017
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Doctor of Dental Surgery from Creighton University School of Dentistry, Omaha, NE, 2021
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Pediatric Dental Residency Program and Master of Oral Biology from University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences, Toledo, OH, 2023
