APEX Gems: 12 Years of Compassion and Care

"More than 10 years ago I walked into the office of APEX Hospice and Palliative Care. It was close quarters, and therefore easy to meet my new team members, not knowing at the time I would become their leader. Gloria and Elda, our APEX Gems immediately spoke with me regarding their workload, but not as you would imagine. They wanted to do more and give more. They began sharing their vision for APEX, its potential for growth, and how they can thrive in the positions they loved, all at a company they want to work for. They wanted a challenge, one that evolved their career in caring for end-of-life patients and their families.

Gloria and Elda saw themselves as an important part of a health care team. They share stories of anticipating patient needs, sitting with families and listening to their stories and fears, their first experiences with their first hospice patient. Elda shared, “I was so afraid to go into people’s homes, wondering what we would talk about, how was I going to be of support to them. And now, I wake each day excited to be able to go back to their homes.”

Gloria shared, “It was hard my first couple of months, but I leaned on our nurses. They helped me and I helped them, until I became comfortable.”

Today, APEX could not imagine life or work without these Gems.  They are recognized for their career development and commitment. Each of them celebrating 12+ years at APEX Hospice and Palliative Care and honorable careers as C.N.A.s, where we have all benefitted from their patience, compassion, work ethic, flexibility, and strength.

Congratulations Elda and Gloria, you are not just Gems for APEX, you are Gems to hundreds of patients and families, whose lives you have touched over the past 12 years."

– Shelley Cartwright CHPO | CEO Apex Health Services