In honor of Mother’s Day (Sunday, May 14) we’re recognizing just a few of the amazing moms at Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas City (Blue KC) and sharing their stories, advice and what they love most about being a mom.
Janet
Janet Heinitz-Smith works in the IT department and has a daughter Yvonne (2 months). Janet is pictured on the left.
“There’s nothing better in the world than watching my daughter smile when she sees me. Being a first-time mom I have so much to learn, but I would tell someone to remember that as hectic as raising a child is, take time to step back and enjoy all of the little moments as much as you can.”
Marie
Marie Ramirez works in the Compliance department. She has five sons and has 10 grandchildren.
“I like to think my sons get their ability to nurture from me. I love creating an environment where people feel welcome. My sons are always available for me and each other whenever there is a need.”
“My kids and their families are always at my house on the weekends. I try to “turn off” my work brain on the weekends and make it family time. I’m lucky enough to still have my mother. At 91 years old she is still going strong. I spend time with her and my sons and they come over to my house and they spoil me.”
Tia
Tia Garrison is in the Operations department. She has three boys: Jaquan (20), Kyce (15) and Kaden (14).
“I love to watch them grow and learn. They are very strong-willed and entertaining. I stay organized to ensure the home runs smooth and make sure to spend quality time with my kids whenever I can so we can enjoy and make memories.”
Jocelyn
Jocelyn Burgette is in the Operations department. She is a mom to three daughters: Chanel (31) who also works at Blue KC, Charneice (29) and Charmaine (28).
“The hardest part about being a mom is just knowing what’s right. A lot comes naturally, but every day you learn something new. Sometimes you don’t know if you’re doing the right or wrong thing… they don’t come with instructions. It’s okay to make mistakes.”
Arcelia
Arcelia Cruz works in the IT department. She has four kids: George (26), Vanessa (22), Caitlyn (14) and Isabella (5).
“The hardest part of being a mom is watching your children struggle, allowing them to grow and become independent. Enjoy every moment with your child and tell them how much you love them daily.”
Adrienne
Adrienne Lambeth is in the Provider Relations department. She has two kids: Eva (7) and Chandler (2).
“Eva got her compassion from me. She grasped emotional intelligence at a very young age. That understanding naturally shifted into compassion. Chandler is determined. He won’t give up on a task until it’s done correctly. He’s focused and fearless. I love feeding their curiosity and sense of adventure. But most of all, I love being silly with them. I get to act like a kid with my kids! We play with Nerf guns, paint our faces, talk in accents and jump in puddles.”
“Don’t sweat the small stuff. There is so much pressure to be the perfect mom when it’s already hard enough being a mom. Focus on making memories of stability, comfort and love because that’s what they’ll remember.”
From the Blue KC family to yours, we’re wishing a happy Mother’s Day to all the mothers and mother figures!