Desirea Richardson, 32, is a shining example of resilience, dedication and perseverance. Originally from the small town of Lakeland, Georgia, Desirea is a single mother of three boys: Kayden (11), Rylan (6), and Desmond (4). Her inspiring journey at SGMC Health shows that determination and hard work can turn dreams into reality.
After graduating from high school, Desirea attended South Georgia State University in Douglas, Georgia with dreams of becoming a nurse. But life took an unexpected turn when she became pregnant with her first child at age 21. Desirea decided to support her growing family and joined SGMC Health as a dishwasher in the kitchen. Although this was not her original plan, she saw this as an opportunity, an entryway into the health care field, which she was passionate about.
Throughout the years, Desirea’s ambition and perseverance never wavered. As a single mother, she worked tirelessly to balance her home and work responsibilities. At the age of 26 and 28, she welcomed two more sons into the family and despite the challenges, she has continued to move forward. She decided to advance her career, earned her Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification, and transitioned into a role as a CNA at SGMC Health.
While working full-time and caring for her children, Desirea earned not one but two associate degrees in health sciences. With each step, she got a little closer to her dream of becoming a nurse. To ease the financial burden and make nursing school a reality, Desirea made the bold decision to purchase a two-bedroom mobile home and land, budgeting effectively and staying focused on her goals. is completed.
In December 2023, Desirea achieved a significant milestone by earning her Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) degree from Georgia Tech at Wiregrass. Her hard work and determination paid off once again in August 2024, when she purchased her first home, a four-bedroom, three-bathroom home, providing a stable and comfortable environment for her family.
Desirea currently plans to begin the Registered Nurse (RN) program at Wiregrass Georgia Tech in the fall of 2025. Her story is a powerful reminder that no matter where you start, with determination, support, and a strong work ethic, you can succeed. You can achieve anything.
Desirea is quick to acknowledge those who have played an important role in her success. “I would like to thank Serena Brady, the director of nursing at the Berean and Lanier campuses. I would also like to thank Mr. Nancibeth Shealy and Mr. Hugh Warren in human resources. They were very helpful and gave me many opportunities to help out at the school and a positive sign when I became a nurse. He gave me information about OnBonus.”
Inspired by her own journey, Desirea offers free tutoring lessons to help other single mothers and young women attending nursing school. “This story really helps show that you can be a mother and have a career,” she says proudly.
At SGMC Health, Desirea not only enjoys career opportunities, but also tuition assistance programs for continuing education, flexible schedules to support work-life balance, competitive benefits including health insurance and retirement plans, I also found a supportive work environment that provided opportunities for career advancement within the company. These resources play an important role in helping Desirea achieve her professional goals while providing for her family.
Desirea’s story is a testament to SGMC Health’s commitment to empowering employees and fostering professional growth. Her journey inspires us all to dream big, work hard and never give up.
Congratulations on your amazing accomplishment, Desirea! The SGMC Health family is so proud of you!
If you are interested in career opportunities at SGMC Health, please visit our careers page.
