She was born and raised in suburban New Jersey, where her parents still reside. Ever since childhood, she has been very close with her older sister who is now a third grade teacher. The two spent endless hours riding their bikes, swimming, and doing crafts. Dr. Helms began talking about becoming a doctor in kindergarten and never took her eyes off her goal. She graduated from college after three years to follow her wanderlust abroad for a year before medical school. After general surgery training, she practiced in a rural community in southern Virginia prior to relocating to Western Mass. She cherishes her 2 dogs, a French Bulldog and a Great Dane.”