The stories behind our people, places and services are what drive us. Here, we share significant events, pivotal moments, special memories, and sometimes, just a day in the life of what it’s like to be part of the Optimae LifeServices family.
Helen’s journey to hope and healing
Often, when one dreams of retirement, thoughts of sandy beaches, time with the grandkids or travel come to mind. For Helen Raymond, her retirement met an unexpected chapter.
After working as a physical therapist for many years, specializing in care for children — an occupation that brought her joy and fulfillment — Helen realized she needed to focus on her mental health.
“When I was in Ohio, my mental health went into a slide,” Helen says. “I was unable to work, so I had to retire somewhere, and I chose Fairfield because I have family there.”
In Fairfield, Helen discovered Optimae Behavioral Health Services, as it was local, and a couple of people recommended it to her.
A mental health journey through loss, community — and pizza
In his job at a local pizzeria and bakery, Mike Ripperger serves up more than dough and toppings.
“I like to put smiles on people’s faces,” he says. “I bring not only pizza, but I bring smiles to the bakery.”
Despite his infectious laugh and joyful personality today, the road here wasn’t easy. More than 10 years ago, Mike lost his father, Randy.
Suicide survivor finds renewed purpose
Two hours. That’s how close the doctors said Andrea Huston was to death by suicide.
December 2018 was bleak for the Kahoka, Missouri, resident. She was transitioning into adulthood and had recently moved back home after a sexual assault.
“I moved back down here after that situation happened,” Andrea said. “I started getting into situations that I shouldn’t have. I started [rebelling] a lot more. I moved back with family so I could…get my head on straight, so I could figure out my next move.”
Tyrell’s path to new kidneys and a new life
Tyrell Bosket has visited a dialysis center three times a week for nearly four years. At four and a half hours per visit, that’s more than 2,700 hours in the dialysis seat, waiting as his blood filters through an artificial kidney.
“It was tough,” Tyrell says. “It was tough at first. Lot of cramps in my body, my legs and stuff. It took a lot out of me.”
Around the time Tyrell started dialysis, Samantha “Sam” Buchman started her new job with Optimae Home Health Services, a division of Optimae LifeServices. As a registered nurse, she began working with Tyrell right away.
“I go see Tyrell once a week, and we just have 45 minutes, maybe 30 minutes, and go over how he’s feeling and stuff like that — check vitals, do his medications, things like that.”
