Today we’d like to introduce you to Dr. Tonya Stephens.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I always wanted to help people when I was younger. As a young child, I always wanted to work in the medical field. I remember dressing up as a doctor and having a toy medical bag. My dreams came to fusion because I was a Registered Respiratory Therapist for many years and it allowed me to not only provide compassion to patients but also help me to realize that there is a need in the Home Health industry as well as the Non-Emergency Transportation arena. When my Father and Grandmother were diagnosed with Cancer, I decided to be their caregiver. Once they passed away, I had a vision about opening a Home Health Care Agency. I made my dreams a reality in 2019 and opened my home health agency. Within the same year, I also opened a NEMT Transportation Company. Fast forward today, I recently opened an Ambulance Service Company. I am now on a mission to impact and empower my community. My mission is to support the community with transportation and home health and change the world in the process.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
There are many obstacles as an Entrepreneur. As a serial entrepreneur, I have learned that “Much is given Much is required” That scripture has always stuck with me. All the struggles that I have endured while pursuing my dreams were all worth it. There will always be hiccups in the road in any business, however it is the Purpose that I focus on to keep going.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Key of Life Cares/Key of Life Transportation Services?
Key of Life Cares and Key of Life Transportation Services are companies that I hold dear to me. We specialize in a wide range of services such as assisting with grooming, daily living essentials, meal preparation, light housekeeping, laundry, transportation, and many other services. What sets us apart from others is the patient experiences, quality outcomes, and our patient satisfaction. We focus on how we make our clients feel. We make that a priority. We never stop at caring for our clients in the home, we make sure they get the mental clarity of knowing that we care. What I am most proud of about my brand is the services that we provide and the grace that is given to me to provide many services. Key of Life Non-Emergency Transportation Services is our sister company that provides transportation for those to dialysis, doctor appointments, grocery stores, medication pickups, and hospital discharge. We provide these services for those who are ambulatory and non-ambulatory. We have the necessary vehicles to accommodate all clients.
What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
What I have learned along my journey is that the healthcare industry is evolving. Health care and transportation services are needed. I am so grateful that I did not give up on my dreams. There are so many people that are desperately needing our services. I am so proud that I can help and continue to help my community.
