One of my favorite memories has been watching THB grow, especially on the Medicare Advantage side. When I started we just handled two health plans, WellCare and UHC. As this part of the company has expanded, we’ve been able to support more members in getting the care and services they need to live independently at home. It’s rewarding to see that growth translate into a greater impact for members, and to be part of a team making it happen.

THB's mission is deeply personal to me. Before joining THB, I was offered a position at a large company, but once I learned about THB’s mission, I knew I wanted to be part of work that's bigger than myself: helping older adults stay independent at home. My connection to this work goes back to elementary school, when we visited a nearby nursing home to spend time with the residents and sing for them (Madrecita, by Jose Jose). Their happiness and gratitude stayed with me. As I got older, I helped my grandmother navigate insurance because neither she nor my mom spoke English. I saw how difficult it was for my grandmother to get post-discharge personal care, over-the-counter items, and transportation after a fall left her in a wheelchair, especially when we were low-income and could afford little beyond the basics. It made me realize how isolating aging and illness can be, and how even simple needs, like a glass of water or a proper bath, can become difficult to access when care teams are stretched thin. To me, this mission means helping older adults get compassionate support in the comfort of their own homes, with dignity, so they don’t have to face those challenges alone.

I’ve been helping care for people I love for as long as I can remember. My older brother has learning disabilities, and when we were growing up, I helped him eat and do his homework. If anyone bullied him, I was the first to defend him. I’ve always been protective of him and wanted to make sure he was treated fairly. When my brother got older and moved away, my grandmother moved in with us. She was small, but so strong and independent. She used to work alongside my grandfather building fountains in the Miami sunshine, and she’d bring me with her. I helped mix cement, carry the basins and fountain tiers, and haul water. She taught me what hard work looks like, and I’ve carried that with me ever since. Now my grandmother is partially blind and a double amputee, and I help her with things like using the bathroom, getting around in her wheelchair, and getting into my car so we can go out. Sometimes she feels guilty that I have to help her, but I don’t see it as a burden. I think about that little girl she brought along to work, and how much she helped shape the woman I am today. I feel lucky to be able to care for her and give some of that love back. I thank God for blessing me with such an amazing grandmother, and I’ll always be grateful for her.

I used to play basketball when I was younger, and my son is a point guard now. I tried playing with him again recently, now that he’s 16, but it was a little too humbling for my liking. So I picked up a less physical sport: pickleball. I wouldn’t challenge Char or anything, but I can get the ball over the net a bit! I’m Dominican, so I love dancing bachata, merengue, really anything that gets me up and moving. Since we’re remote, I have to confess that sometimes I dance between meetings to decompress. It’s a fun way to shake off the stress and reset. Recently, I picked up the book Atomic Habits, and it inspired me to start focusing more on my health. One thing I’m doing slowly but consistently is taking a walk every morning in the park. I get some Miami sun, sometimes jog or exercise, and take in the beautiful lake views. It’s a simple routine, but it’s a great way to start my day.