A mother's legacy shapes the future of healthcare

When Kiki Courtelis’ father moved to America with $1,000 in his pocket, he worked hard to build a life in the land of opportunity. Years later, Kiki reflects on how her dad always wanted to give back to the country that gave so much to him, and how his mindset shaped the future course of his entire family.

“My family has always worked to give back, it is something that is engrained in who I am,” said Kiki. “Now, I give back in ways that are meaningful to me and that I hope can positively impact those around me, but I will always have gratitude for my parents raising me to know it is important to make a difference and lend a helping hand.”

When Kiki and her mother moved to Kentucky almost two decades ago, it was shortly before her mother got sick and required medical care. After an initial hospital experience wasn’t what they were hoping for, Kiki was able to get her mom transferred to Baptist Health Lexington, then known as Central Baptist.

“From that moment on, Baptist Health was the only hospital my family and I would receive care from,” she said. “It went beyond the compassion and care from the staff, it was an experience that made us feel like family and we were finally home.”

Getting back to her roots, Kiki began giving back to Baptist Health Lexington to pave the way for research projects that are dedicated to bringing central Kentucky to the forefront of healthcare. Investment in medical research will help to provide important information about disease trends and risk factors, fund clinical trials, and lessen the impact of our greatest health problems, from cancer to heart disease.

“When you find an organization you believe in, it is important to support their ability to grow and make the biggest possible influence,” she said. “By supporting Baptist Health and investing in research, it is a way that I can make an impact that will benefit thousands of lives, not only now but future generations who will have access to the answers and care they need to continue on a path to health and healing.”

Kiki believes that healthcare staff have the most difficult jobs in any community. “They are truly essential, and the work they do saves lives every day. At Baptist Health you can feel the love from each person you come into contact with, and that difference is palpable.”

Her mother’s love ignited Kiki’s passion for Baptist Health, and now it is a way for her to continue to honor her mother’s memory and create a legacy that will live on forever. “My mom was an incredible lady and philanthropist,” said Kiki. “Through my giving back, I am able to allow her to continue making an impact even though she is no longer physically here. I hope that I can inspire more people to get involved, because when we come together, the possibilities for our future are truly limitless.”