A Daughter’s Full Circle Moment

A Daughter’s Full Circle Moment

In life, there are moments that feel like destiny, and moments that remind us that there’s more to our journey than mere coincidence. Meet LaToya Sheppard, a compassionate aide at Gilchrist, who is living proof that life’s true purpose can emerge from the most unexpected places. She doesn’t just fulfill her purpose; she faces life’s challenges with unwavering strength, grace, and dedication.

Less than a year ago, LaToya’s world was deeply touched by the compassionate hospice care her beloved mother received from Gilchrist.  With over 15 years of experience in healthcare, LaToya understood the importance of her mother receiving the best possible care. Although she had preconceived notions about hospice care she wanted her mom to be comfortable in her own home. “My perception of hospice changed when she started receiving care. I had more education on it,” said LaToya. “You think you know because you work in healthcare, but you really don’t. I was properly educated on hospice, and I’m glad I chose Gilchrist. It was a relief.” While LaToya lovingly served as her mother’s primary caregiver, the Gilchrist hospice team became invaluable allies. While LaToya lovingly served as her mother’s primary caretaker, the hospice team at Gilchrist played an invaluable role, offering not only care but genuine support and compassion. Frequent nurse check-ins, visits, soothing music therapy sessions, and attention to every detail ensured LaToya’s mother had everything she needed, from essential medications to comforting items that eased her days until the very end.

While LaToya wasn’t new to the field of healthcare, this experience took her on a transformative journey. The demands of her previous job no longer matched her current life circumstances. She realized change was inevitable once her mother passed away. Fate had a plan of its own. Initially missing a career fair opportunity at Gilchrist, the very organization that had provided comfort and care to her dear mother, LaToya received encouragement from Human Resources to apply. She seized the opportunity with courage and determination, leading to her new path. The timing couldn’t have been more poignant—LaToya was offered the position as a hospice aide. In a remarkable twist of destiny, she found herself working for the same organization that had recently extended its unwavering support to her family during their time of need.

“I’ve always heard so many good things about Gilchrist,” recalled LaToya. “So, I knew that I wanted to be able to enhance the end-of-life care and be able to spend my time with people at their last hour.”

Now, every day, LaToya’s purpose is deeply intertwined with her role, where she provides love and support to patients and their families who are going through the same challenges she faced not long ago. Her compassion knows no bounds, and she finds peace in being a source of understanding. Families often confide in her, sharing their own grief and struggles. With an open heart, LaToya responds, “It’s a process, and it’s a journey. And I am on a journey myself.” It’s in these moments, connections deepen, and a shared journey of healing and hope begins.