Our Vascular Specialist Team
JEFFREY M. MARTINEZ. M.D.
AN EXPERIENCED VASCULAR SURGEON
Dr. Jeffrey Martinez is a native of San Antonio. His roots in the community begin in 1715 when his family first settled here at a time when the region was a new undiscovered territory. His family has been instrumental in the development of South Texas throughout its early history.
Dr. Martinez attended Texas A&M University and received his medical degree from the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio. He completed residency training in general surgery at the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio and performed a vascular fellowship at the University of Tennessee Medical Center in Memphis. He is a board-certified vascular surgeon with additional training in endovascular surgery. He served eight years on active duty in the U.S. Navy with tours aboard the USS TRENTON, USS ENTERPRISE, and as the chief of Vascular Surgery at Naval Hospital, Portsmouth, Virginia.
Dr. Martinez returned to San Antonio in 2001 and has practiced in the community since that time bringing new and unique technologies and techniques to San Antonio as the lead investigator for numerous clinical trials involving peripheral arterial disease. He strives to continually learn and evaluate new treatment options for his patients and has a keen interest and expertise in treating complex lower extremity arterial and venous disease. His training as a vascular surgeon gives him particular expertise in weighing the minimally invasive and traditional open procedure options.
KRISTINA HUDSON, PRACTICE ADMINISTRATOR
MAKING EVERY PATIENT EXPERIENCE EXCEPTIONAL
Kristina Hudson brings over 20 years of experience in practice administration, with the last four years focused on vascular surgery. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Management and Administration from the University of Central Florida.
Known for her strategic approach and dedication, Kristina uses her deep expertise to ensure smooth operations and exceptional patient experiences. Now that her daughter is in college, she is excited to dedicate even more energy to making a difference on the south side of San Antonio. Kristina is passionate about fostering a welcoming environment and delivering excellent patient care as part of the Espada Vascular team.
LAURIE REID, RN
A HEART OF DEDICATION IN THE CATH LAB
We are excited to introduce you to Laurie Reid, an exceptional member of our Vascular Specialists team! With 32 years of experience as a Registered Nurse (RN), Laurie brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to our organization.
Laurie’s passion lies in the Cath lab, where she has been performing both coronary and peripheral cases for an impressive 26 years. Her extensive experience in this specialized field is invaluable, and her dedication to delivering high-quality patient care is truly remarkable.
It was in 2006 that Laurie first crossed paths with Dr. Martinez, and their professional collaboration has been going strong ever since. In April of 2023, Laurie joined Espada Vascular, and we are privileged to have her as part of our team.
When Laurie isn’t making a difference in the Cath lab, she enjoys spending time with her husband and two adorable fur babies. As an empty nester, she cherishes the moments shared with her loved ones.
In her leisure time, Laurie likes to cheer on her favorite sports teams, the Spurs and the Dallas Cowboys. Whether it’s basketball or football, you can count on Laurie to be an enthusiastic supporter.
AMANDA CASTILLO, BSN, RN
COMPASSIONATE CARE AND CULINARY CURIOSITY
Amanda joined the Espada Vascular family in May of 2023, and we couldn’t be happier to have her on board. Her journey with Dr. Martinez started way back in 2020. Amanda brings a wealth of experience and expertise to our Vascular Specialist Team, coupled with a genuine passion for her work and an extraordinary dedication to patient care. Her compassionate nature is evident in every interaction she has with our valued patients.
When Amanda isn’t making a profound difference in the cath lab, she is a proud mother of two wonderful children. Family is incredibly important to her, and she thrives in balancing her professional and personal life.
But there’s more to Amanda than just her medical skills and nurturing nature. She is also a self-proclaimed “foodie”. Her adventurous palate leads her to explore diverse cuisines, seeking out new flavors and culinary experiences.
NICOLE LOPEZ, RN
COMMITED TO CARE AND GROWTH
Nicole Lopez, RN brings dedication, compassion, and a strong work ethic to every patient she cares for. She spent eight years as a medical assistant in vascular clinics, where she developed a deep understanding of vascular health and patient needs. It was during this time, in 2020, that she first met Dr. Martinez, sparking a professional connection that would later grow into her current role.
She finds her greatest joy in spending time with her husband and children, cherishing those moments while working hard to reach her personal and professional goals. Nicole’s blend of experience, compassion, and determination makes her an invaluable part of the team and a trusted caregiver for patients.
SHERRY VALERIO, MA
PASSIONATE ABOUT PATIENT CARE
Sherry brings two decades of experience as a Medical Assistant, beginning her career in 2005 with a focus in urology before joining Dr. Martinez in 2009. After working alongside him for 13 years, she rejoined Espada Vascular in July 2025, continuing her commitment to providing compassionate and skilled patient care.
Outside of work, Sherry treasures time with her son, daughter, and her 2-year-old grandson. Having devoted her life to Jesus, she finds joy in volunteering at church and serving her community. In her free time, she enjoys crafting and relaxing at the beach.
JOHANNA ALVARADO
HIGHLY SKILLED SURGICAL BENEFITS COORDINATOR, BRINGS A WEALTH OF EXPERIENCE TO HER ROLE
Johanna Alvarado’s world revolves around her roles as a loving wife and a dedicated mom to two beautiful daughters. She finds joy in keeping up with their sports activities, school events, and fulfilling their wishes. Her children are her constant motivation, driving her to constantly better herself in all areas of life.
In her free time, Johanna enjoys the creative process of cooking and baking. She has a taste for Asian cuisine and a weakness for dark chocolate. Her favorite color is pink. When it’s time to relax, she can be found indulging in her love for horror films.
Professionally, Johanna has invested over a decade in the medical field, specializing in Vascular care. She takes great pride in her work, knowing that her efforts can truly make a difference in the lives of those who need it most.
The wisdom of Maya Angelou rings true for Johanna: “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”
Her commitment to leaving a positive impact on those she encounters shines through in her personal and professional interactions.
SAMANTHA DEER
DEDICATED TO PROVIDING COMPASSIONATE, HANDS-ON CARE TO EVERY PATIENT
Samantha Deer began her journey with Espada Vascular in February 2024 as a medical assistant externship student. After completing her training, she transitioned into her current role as a Cath Lab Technician, where she enjoys the hands-on nature of working both in the cath lab and clinic.
Having previously worked with Dr. Martinez, Samantha returned to Espada Vascular after taking time away to welcome her twin daughters. She enjoys being part of a team that provides hands-on care to patients and appreciates the opportunity to continue growing her skills in vascular care.
Outside of work, Samantha enjoys spending time with her family, walking her dog on local trails, gardening, and caring for her many houseplants.
LAURA SALDANA
A DEDICATED LEADER IN VASCULAR DIAGNOSTICS, COMBINING HER SKILLS WITH A PASSION FOR ADVANCING HEALTHCARE SOLUTIONS
Laura Saldana’s career in healthcare began nearly a decade ago at Peripheral Vascular Associates (PVA), where she first worked alongside Dr. Martinez. Her passion for ultrasound has led her through nearly 10 years of experience across clinic and hospital settings.
As a mother of three, Laura balances her dedication to both family and profession. She recently made a significant career move, leaving her role as Director of Operations to become the first in-house ultrasound technologist for Dr. Martinez. In this capacity, Laura is building and developing the vascular ultrasound department, a reflection of her leadership and expertise.
Laura’s pursuit of knowledge and her commitment to excellence remain a defining part of her journey. Her story is one of determination, leadership, and a deep-rooted passion for healthcare.
JENNIFER PALOMINO, FRONT OFFICE COORDINATOR
CONNECTING PATIENTS WITH EXCEPTIONAL CARE
Jennifer brings 5 years of experience in front office coordination, referrals, billing and insurance. She is tech-savy, a quick learner and dedicated to making every patient feel understood, supported and cared for. Her compassion and attention to detail help create a positive experience for both patients and the practice.
Outside of work, Jennifer is a proud dog mom who loves spending time with her nieces, nephews, mom and extended family. She enjoys trying new foods, watching scary movies, retail therapy, and of course-anything pink. Her faith plays an important role in her life.
