Lisa

Senior Health Guide Associate
Akron, OH

Lisa joined firsthand in early 2023 as a Health Guide Associate. With a background as a nurse, specifically as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), Lisa brings valuable expertise to her role. Lisa's healthcare journey began in 2005 when she became a nurse. Before joining firsthand, she worked for a home health care company, where she served as a nurse and office manager. She joined the company when it was still a startup and remained with them for nine years, growing alongside the organization. 

Over the years, Lisa has gained experience in various healthcare settings, including working in a doctor's office specializing in cardiology and internal medicine. She has also worked in skilled facilities, rehab centers, a certified multiple sclerosis unit, and a behavioral health lockdown unit. Lisa has had the opportunity to work in hospice care as well. Her previous roles have exposed her to a wide range of patients and provided her with clinical and administrative experience.

Lisa's interest in nursing and healthcare emerged during her high school years. Initially, she wanted to pursue physical therapy and sports medicine. However, after volunteering at a sports rehabilitation center, she realized that physical therapy wasn't the right fit for her. She then attended a vocational school, where she explored various aspects of healthcare. Through this experience, Lisa discovered her passion for nursing and decided to become a nurse after completing her nursing assistant license. Although she initially intended to become a registered nurse (RN), life circumstances and personal choices led her to pursue a fulfilling career as an LPN.

Lisa's personal health and wellness journey have been shaped by her own experiences and challenges. She recognizes the impact of family dynamics and has witnessed the effects of divorce, alcohol abuse, and strained relationships within her own family. As her children grew up, Lisa faced new life struggles and found herself contemplating issues she hadn't considered in her younger years. These challenges, combined with a close loved one’s anxiety and her own growing sense of heaviness, led her to seek help for her mental health. Despite initially feeling reluctant to acknowledge her own depression, Lisa consulted a doctor who prescribed medication. This decision turned out to be a game-changer, allowing her to gain clarity and stability. Through this experience, she learned that even healthcare professionals like herself are not immune to mental health challenges, reinforcing the importance of empathy and understanding.

Lisa's time at firsthand has had a profound impact on her. She finds the work environment and culture unlike anything she has experienced before. The company's focus on providing personalized care and support to individuals with mental and physical illnesses has been an eye-opener for her. Lisa values the opportunity to connect with people, form relationships, and witness the positive impact of firsthand's services. She appreciates how the company genuinely cares for the individuals they serve and strives to improve their quality of life. Lisa is inspired by the transformations she has witnessed, with individuals finding hope, taking initiative, and expressing gratitude for the lifeline that firsthand has become for them.

Beyond her work, Lisa finds fulfillment in spending time outdoors and being active. Her life revolves around her children and their involvement in sports, particularly lacrosse and softball. She cherishes watching her kids pursue their passions and feels proud of the loving and supportive home she has provided them. Lisa also enjoys exercise, finding it to be a valuable stress reliever. Whether it's walking her dogs or riding her Peloton, she appreciates the mental and physical benefits of staying active.

In reflecting on her life, Lisa is most proud of her role as a parent and the positive impact she has had on her children's lives. As for her time at firsthand, she is proud to be part of a compassionate and diverse team. The opportunity to learn from her colleagues and the shared experiences they bring has been an enriching experience for her. The supportive environment, where everyone genuinely cares for one another, has made a lasting impression on Lisa, and she feels fortunate to be part of such a unique and impactful company.