Dads Who Inspire
We talked with several dad and daughter duos who all work at UF Health Jacksonville to find out what inspired them to work for the organization, and what they admire most about each other.
The father figures in our lives act to console, support and inspire us. Many of us are motivated to follow the career paths of our fathers and some of us are fortunate enough to work beside them.
We talked with several dad and daughter duos who all work at UF Health Jacksonville to find out what inspired them to work for the organization, and what they admire most about each other.
Jay and Abigail
Jay Brantley started his journey with UF Health Jacksonville 28 years ago. He serves as an Ambulatory Administrator for several clinics including UF Health Women’s Specialists – Emerson, UF Health Gastroenterology – Beaches and UF Health Gastroenterology – Southside. Jay chose this career path because of his passion for health care.
Jay’s daughter, Abigail, is a registered nurse in the Labor and Delivery Unit at UF Health Jacksonville. Abigail chose UF Health because she wanted to work at a facility where she could learn and grow as a nurse. While her dad greatly encouraged her to consider UF Health, it was solely Abigail’s choice to join the UF Health family.
When asked what he admires about his daughter, Jay said, “It is a wonderful experience for me knowing my daughter is not only supporting our company’s mission, but she also has chosen to demonstrate her care for others by helping bring new lives into the world. I love that my daughter uses her loving heart, sense of humor and depth of dedication to care for others.”
Abigail said, “Everyone at work who knows my dad always says he is the sweetest, kindest and most caring man. He shines such a positive light and I admire him so much for that. I hope that I shine a little of the light that he does.”
When Jay was asked which memory with Abigail was his favorite, he emotionally exclaimed, “Every moment of every day in every year since she was born has not only filled my life with incredible memories, but has made being a dad special and spectacular.”
Erta and Ertrice
Dr. Erta Livingston, director of Patient Services at UF Health Jacksonville, is a friendly familiar face to many on campus. Dr. Livingston is well-known as a great listener, problem solver and advocate for patients and employees.
As Ertrice explained her path to UF Health, one could guess that she inherited the same poise and passion her dad exudes. Currently a patient care assistant and nursing student, Ertrice emotionally revealed that she chose nursing after her dad experienced a brain aneurysm several years ago. Ertrice felt a strong need to help others recover, just like the providers and nurses who cared for her dad in his recovery.
Though Ertrice could have used her dad as a reference when applying for a position, she wanted to land a position on her own. Dr. Livingston is very proud of Ertrice, noting that she has grown to be very independent. She could easily lean on her dad for assistance at work, but she rarely needs to. She’s proud to make a name for herself just from others noticing her passion, talent and dedication.
Kurt and Emily
Emily’s first introduction to UF Health Jacksonville was during an admission to TraumaOne after an accident. Kurt had been working at UF Health Rehabilitation for eight months when he got the call that his daughter was in the Emergency Room. After the details were explained, he realized it was more serious than he originally thought. With the great care from the medical team, Emily had a successful recovery.
A few months later, Kurt moved to management at UF Health Rehabilitation – North and encouraged Emily to apply for a position in scheduling with UF Health Radiology – North. Her experience at TraumaOne inspired her to be a part of the great care the organization provides. She now works in the admissions department as a financial representative.
Kurt and Emily enjoy seeing each other during the work week, frequently having lunch together in the break room. Emily is inspired by Kurt, as she’s heard how wonderful he is from multiple patients. She strives to provide the same level of service. Since they’ve worked at UF Health North, patients and employees can easily tell that Kurt and Emily are related, not only because they look alike, but they tend to have the same kind, calm and helpful demeanor.
UF Health Jacksonville is very proud to support all employees and embraces our families employed here. From all of our staff and faculty, we wish everyone a happy Father’s Day!
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