Desirea Richardson, 32, is a shining example of resilience, dedication, and the power of perseverance. Hailing from the small town of Lakeland, Georgia, Desirea is a single mother of three boys: Caden (11), Rylan (6), and Desmond (4). Her inspiring journey at SGMC Health demonstrates how determination and hard work can turn dreams into reality.
After graduating high school, Desirea attended South Georgia State College in Douglas, Georgia, with aspirations of becoming a nurse. However, life took an unexpected turn when she became pregnant with her first child at 21. Determined to provide for her growing family, Desirea joined SGMC Health as a dishwasher in the kitchen. While it wasn’t her original plan, she viewed it as an opportunity—a doorway into the healthcare field she was so passionate about.
Over the years, Desirea’s ambition and perseverance never wavered. As a single mother, she worked tirelessly to balance her responsibilities at home and at work. At ages 26 and 28, she welcomed two more sons into her family, and despite challenges, she pushed forward. Determined to advance her career, she 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 achieved not one, but two associate degrees in Health Science. With every step, she inched closer to her dream of becoming a nurse. To ease financial burdens and make nursing school a reality, Desirea made the bold decision to purchase a two-bedroom mobile home and land, allowing her to budget effectively and remain focused on her goals.
In December 2023, Desirea achieved a significant milestone—earning her Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) degree from Wiregrass Georgia Technical College. Her hard work and determination paid off once again in August 2024, when she purchased her first four-bedroom, three-bathroom home, providing a stable and comfortable environment for her family.
Desirea is currently planning to begin the Registered Nurse (RN) program at Wiregrass Georgia Technical College in the Fall of 2025. Her story serves as a powerful reminder that no matter where you start, with determination, support, and a strong work ethic, you can achieve anything.
Desirea is quick to acknowledge the people who played vital roles in her success. “I want to thank Selena Brady, Director of Nursing at Berrien and Lanier Campuses. She allowed me to change my schedule whenever needed to help me with class and study for tests. I also want to thank Nancibeth Shealy and Hugh Warren in Human Resources. They were so helpful and gave me information on so many opportunities that I could use to help with school as well as a nice sign-on bonus when I became a nurse.”
Inspired by her own journey, Desirea has been offering free tutoring lessons to help other single moms and young ladies with nursing school. “This story really helps me show that you can be a mom and have a career,” she says proudly.
At SGMC Health, Desirea found not only career opportunities but also a supportive work environment that offers tuition assistance programs for continued education, flexible scheduling to support work-life balance, competitive benefits including health insurance and retirement plans, and opportunities for internal career advancement. These resources have played an essential role in helping Desirea reach her professional goals while providing for her family.
Desirea’s story is a testament to SGMC Health’s commitment to empowering its employees and fostering professional growth. Her journey inspires us all to dream big, work hard, and never give up.
Congratulations, Desirea, on all your incredible accomplishments! Your SGMC Health family is so proud of you.
If you’re interested in career opportunities at SGMC Health visit our careers page.