A bond that cannot be broken

When Keiren Gillum and her husband, Greg, found out they were expecting their first child they were in a state of pure excitement. During the second trimester, they suffered a devastating loss that would stay with them but did not dim their determination to create a family of their own.

One year later, despite a second high-risk pregnancy, they welcomed their daughter, Alarah, prematurely and found comfort in an unexpected place: their healthcare provider.

“The patient-focused care we received at Baptist Health was unlike anything either one of us witnessed or experienced in the past,” said Keiren. “Not only did the staff take great care of our baby, but they took care of us as well. The passion and comfort that were shown to us is something we will always be grateful for.”

After losing their third pregnancy, the Gillum family had a fourth child, Caiden, who was also born premature. “To this day, our care team holds a special place in our hearts. They helped us in times of loss and walked with us during our times of joy. It’s a bond and sense of loyalty that cannot easily be put into words.”

As someone who built a career working in the compliance division of multiple healthcare systems, it wasn’t until she accepted a role with Baptist Health Medical Group that “she felt like she was where she belonged.” Now, Keiren serves as the regional director of compliance and HIPAA privacy for the eastern region supporting Corbin, Richmond and Lexington hospitals.

Inspired by his parents’ story, her son is now on track to become a registered nurse and currently works as a certified nursing assistant at Baptist Health. He just accepted a transfer to a CNA position in the emergency department at Baptist Health Hamburg.

Through years of care and over 12 years of professional service, Keiren believes in Baptist Health and the Christ-centered mission that closely aligns with her philosophy of giving back and helping others.

“By investing in Baptist Health, I am directly contributing to the health of my family and ultimately the multiple communities I serve,” she said. “I like to think my support helps our mission, vision and values to play out in real time. It is obvious that patient care is the priority of this organization and every employee, and through my contribution, I hope that I can help enhance that for everyone who may walk through those doors needing assistance.”

Keiren is passionate about healthcare being available to all members of a community regardless of access or financial capability and is thankful that the work of Baptist Health Foundation can make that a reality.

“Every penny and every dollar helps the viability of our facilities and increases our capacity to offer quality care to those we are dedicated to serving,” she said. “From helping patients get to essential appointments to updating vital equipment, the work the foundation is doing directly impacts those around us. I can see how community support is maximized to benefit thousands of people, and to help contribute to an impact of that magnitude is a no-brainer for me and my family.”