More Than a Job ... Following Her Heart

How long have you worked at Shepherd Center and what is your role?

“I have worked at Shepherd for two years as a peer support liaison for family members and caregivers. When patients who have sustained a brain injury are admitted to Shepherd, we take care of the caregivers. We go into the rooms and introduce ourselves to the caregivers to let them know that they are not alone and that we have been where they are. We offer them support as they transition through this journey. We answer any questions they have about brain injury, rehab, or Shepherd because we've been there.”

What made you want to work at Shepherd?

“I knew early on when my son sustained a brain injury in a car crash four years ago that I had to do something to give back because we felt so supported both out of state where he was injured and when we got to Shepherd. I thought that if I could share my experience with others, maybe I could help them. When Shepherd called and asked if I was interested in the position, it was like winning the lottery. I've been blessed to work here for two years and to give back, fill that gap, and let somebody know they’re not going through this alone. Even though we're further along in our journey, I know 100% what it feels like. Sometimes, I don't feel like I’m doing anything. I’m just being myself and sharing my experience. I’m just telling them what I went through. But to have that person say, ‘Oh my gosh, you've helped me so much. Thank you.’ It is such a blessing to take something so horrible and get something so beautiful; it’s very meaningful because you know you're helping people.”

What was one of your best days at work?

“Because my son was in the Disorders of Consciousness Program, a great day is when we get that awesome email that a patient whose caregiver we're seeing has emerged. We celebrate with them because we know what that feels like.”

How do you think your role impacts patients and families?

“When we meet caregivers and say, ‘We know what you're going through,’ we truly know what they're going through. And I think that has a huge impact on them because they know that we've been in the trenches where they are, even though the injury or the illness may be different. We know what it's like to be displaced from home and family, to see our loved one fighting for their life. I think that impacts them the most.”

What else would you like people to know about your role?

“I’d like people to know that, yes, this is my job, but it's more. It's my way to give back, and it is an honor. It's my calling to share. It’s my heart.”

Education

Gwinnett Technical College, A.S., Business

Southern Crescent Technical College, Teaching Certificate

Fun Facts

Kim has worked as a special education paraprofessional.

Kim loves to shop — she considers it therapeutic.

She has two adorable grandchildren, ages four and five.

She has three sons, and she’ll soon have two new drivers in the house since her son Brody is re-learning to drive while her 16-year-old, Jett, recently got his driver’s license.

Interview by Ruth Underwood