Vanessa R. May 2021 Volunteer Spotlight

I was raised with the notion that “We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.”  During these trying COVID times – this couldn’t be further from the truth!  I am reminded of this daily, especially, as a single mother of a little boy.  I couldn’t be more blessed for the many that have given to my son and I and the tribe that has helped us throughout this journey.  FIA, in essence, is my way of expressing my gratitude and paying it forward!  Having been referred by Doretta, I started driving patients to doctor appointments in January 2021.

Every person that I have provided transportation to has been so gracious and appreciative of the services that FIA provides.  Honestly speaking, its humbling to reflect on the fact that there are so many people less fortunate than I.  And that a little gesture of kindness, warm smile, listening ear and compassionate heart can make a big difference in someone’s life! 

I’m the proud mother of the most selfless, kind-hearted, mature 10 y/o boy, Christianson, who is beyond excited to be starting Cardinals Youth Football!  This little man is not only my favorite little human and rock, but my life purpose and greatest accomplishment!  We also have a very rotund cat (rescued as a kitten during Hurricane Irma) that has been renamed about 5 times (Snickers, Whiskers, Tommie Boy, etc.) until finally settling on “Kitty.  Without a doubt, Kitty is living the dream!

I’m an ER nurse, Covid homeschool mother, and Doctor in training.  My journey is a work in progress.  No plan A, no plan B, just God’s plan.  I enjoy cooking, ice skating, fishing and water sports.  My hometown is Bloomington, IL, but I’ve lived in Florida; Guadalajara, MX; and St. Louis, too.  I’m the second oldest of 8 children and worth noting, the favorite child as well (though it does depend on who you ask.)  Growing up, my father would refer to us as the crazy 8 – and indeed that’s not far from the truth!  Never a dull moment at our house.  Lots of “verbal volleyball,” as my mother would describe the bantering back and forth, but lots of unconditional love too.  I wouldn’t trade my crazy family for the world!