I am a Registered Nurse (RN), community health educator, Prevent T2 Lifestyle Coach, and founder of two women-owned, community-based organizations dedicated to advancing the health and wellness of vulnerable populations. My healthcare career has centered on home and community-based care, where my clinical experience in home health, hospice, and infusion therapy has given me deep insight into the obstacles clients face when managing chronic conditions. In these roles, I have seen firsthand that gaps in disease management knowledge and support create persistent barriers to effective self-care and lead to avoidable health complications.
As a Disaster Health Services volunteer with the Red Cross, I supported individuals with disaster-related health needs. Many clients with chronic diseases face significant recovery challenges, often struggling to recall all their prescriptions, medical supplies, and other essential health resources. Coordinating with insurers, providers, pharmacies, and medical supply companies—while navigating disaster verification requirements—can delay the replacement of vital medical necessities. This gap between disaster and recovery can trigger acute exacerbations of chronic conditions, sometimes with debilitating consequences. These experiences reinforced the importance of ensuring that every person with a chronic disease receives comprehensive preparedness education, resources, and support.
Reflecting on my clinical experiences as a nurse educator inspired me to found Care First Education. I recognized the importance of empowering individuals with chronic diseases to overcome barriers to better health. Care First Education LLC delivers evidence-based health, safety, and preparedness education, offering programs such as Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support, Blood Pressure and Cholesterol Management, Freedom from Smoking, Prevent T2, and more—both online and in-person. In our first year, I developed our diabetes education initiative, earning CDC recognition for our Diabetes Prevention Program and accreditation from the Association of Diabetes Care & Education Specialists (ADCES).
I am also committed to lifelong learning. This summer, I am preparing for the Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES) exam—a humbling reminder that there is always more to learn.