Central Mom Begins Practice of Medicine

Years of sacrifice and hard work are finally paying off for Amanda and Neal Watts, both 2002 graduates of Central High School.

During her high school years, you might have watched Amanda play for the Lady Wildcats softball team.  Or she might have waited on you at Indian Mound Grocery Store, which is owned by her step-father, Jimmy Santangelo.

The couple worked their way through LSU. Amanda earned a B.S. in biology, and Neal earned his degree in international studies.

They were also busy raising their daughter Aubri, now 14. Along the way, Amanda, who had a 3.85 average in undergraduate school, decided she wanted to become a physician. She applied and was accepted into the LSU Medical School in New Orleans.  It is a four-year program, and she lived in Metairie those four years.  She received her degree in 2012 and went through her residency program at Baton Rouge General Medical Center’s Family Medicine Residency Program.

While she was in her residency program, Amanda and Neal had two more daughters, Adleigh, 5, and Aidyn Ella, 4.

Amanda’s mother, Mikki, who teaches K4 at Central Private School, said she is so proud of Amanda. “It’s been great! She’s worked so hard. She was determined and did it!”

Her stepfather, Jimmy Santangelo, said, “It’s pretty remarkable. She’s been through a lot but persevered and has been very successful.”  Jimmy and Mikki have four children between them.

Amanda’s husband Neal too has sacrificed a lot and has been the main caregiver for the children while Amanda completed her training.

The couple lives in Rambling Oaks in Central.

Jimmy Santangelo said, “It’s a long road to become a doctor, but she was willing to do what it takes!”

Dr. Watts is board certified in family medicine and is a member of the American Academy of Family Physicians. Her office is located at 10127 Florida Blvd., Baton Rouge, LA 70815.

Baton Rouge General Physicians consists of more than 80 physicians and 20 practices. It is owned and operated under General Health System. Baton Rouge General Physicians offers individuals and families throughout the Capital Area quality healthcare in convenient locations from Livingston to Brusly. For more information, visit BRGPhysicians.com.

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