This month, we’re pleased to spotlight Jeanne Saavedra, who serves as a Patient Coordinator at our Albuquerque office. Jeanne has been a valued member of the Giving Home team for nearly seven years, bringing empathy, dedication, and heart to her work every single day.
Jeanne’s path to healthcare was an unexpected yet personal one. Before joining Giving Home, Jeanne spent several years working in case management for adults with disabilities, ensuring individuals received the support they needed. Earlier in her career, she worked in technology within the school system — a far cry from healthcare. As her parents aged, they faced their own challenges and she participated in helping care for them; this experience changed her path entirely and led her to a role supporting others in similar circumstances at Giving Home. What began as an unexpected career shift turned out to be, in her words, “meant to be and a blessing.”
Though she initially worried about stepping into a healthcare role without a medical background, Jeanne found her footing quickly. The team’s support and her own personal experiences gave her a unique perspective on what patients go through. It’s that empathy that continues to guide her each day.
As a Patient Coordinator, no two days look the same for Jeanne – and that’s one of her favorite parts about the job. She might spend one day preparing paperwork or attending medical appointments with patients and another traveling hours across New Mexico for home visits. Despite the long drives, she finds a lot of joy in connecting with patients face-to-face. Jeanne loves the moments when her patients welcome her in, ready to share their stories and learn about their care options. “Sometimes I wake up in the morning, and I can’t believe that I have the job that I have,” says Jeanne. “I am grateful and feel very blessed.”
Jeanne has worked alongside her current team for quite some time and truly appreciates the collaborative environment they’ve built together. She describes her colleagues as fun, smart, and intelligent people who are always willing to help each other find solutions. Whether it’s answering a tough question or tracking down information when someone’s on the road, the team consistently shows up for one another. “I’ve been here a long time,” she laughs, “but I still have lots of questions, and someone always helps.” That sense of shared mission extends beyond the Albuquerque office; Jeanne believes it’s woven into the very culture at Giving Home, where patient advocacy is at the heart of everything we do.
In addition to her patient coordination responsibilities, Jeanne serves on the Working Committee for Giving Back, Giving Home’s 501(c)(3) charitable organization that supports employees facing unexpected financial hardship. Since joining the committee early on, she’s watched it grow into a large and impactful organization. “It’s very satisfying to know you’re helping somebody when they’re in need,” she shares. For Jeanne, this volunteer role is an extension of the same compassion and empathy that fuels her work with patients.
Outside of work, Jeanne enjoys spending time with her family, friends, and her dog Simba (“who is small, but he thinks he’s tough!”). She also loves music, the outdoors, and traveling. When the weather is warm, she can often be found fishing in her favorite local spots or tending to her flower and vegetable gardens.
Reflecting on her journey so far, Jeanne feels grateful for where life has led her. Every day brings new challenges and rewards, but at the heart of it all is her passion for helping others. “I love being an advocate for our patients,” she says. “And I just want to give something back for all the good I’ve been given.”
We’re lucky to have you on the team, Jeanne. Thank you for being such a valued part of the Giving Home family!
