Teyona's Story of Resilience

It has been often said that one’s true character shines through in times of adversity. If that is the case, then Teyona Rodgers, a registration assistant at UF Health Flagler Hospital, is a shining example of resilience.

Moving to Florida from New York in 2021, a series of misfortunes left her homeless. Already with a young child and another on the way, Teyona persevered toward her goal of taking care of her young family. Unable at the time to afford permanent housing, she continued taking online college classes from her cell phone.

“Because of my kids, I had to make myself better,” said Teyona of what drove her when things were most difficult.

Connecting with the Alpha-Omega Miracle Home, a local organization that lends support to single mothers and their children, gave Teyona a helping hand to find a place to live and begin ensuring that her dream could become a reality.

Teyona became a part of Alpha-Omega Miracle Home’s GROW Program, which helps provide participants with the tools they need to achieve their short and long-term goals.

“The support of Alpha-Omega Miracle Home gave me what I needed to make sure that I would never be in this situation again,” said Teyona. “They supported me and taught me things like time management and how to manage my money.

The help she received when she most needed it didn’t just allow Teyona to survive; it allowed her to thrive. She will graduate from St. Johns River State College in December, and after a brief break, will continue her education as she pursues her master's degree.

Teyona has a goal of becoming a hospital administrator and has been a part of the team here at UF Health St. Johns for two years. She is thankful for this step in her career.

“I have always wanted to work in a hospital setting, and I love being here. It will be two years in January, and as a PRN I appreciate how they have worked with me around my school and family schedule.”

Her hard work has begun paying off, and she is now a new homeowner. Teyona hasn’t forgotten those who have been there to lend assistance on her journey. She is interning at Alpha-Omega Miracle Home sharing the valuable lessons she has learned with others who are in the same situation she was just a couple of years ago.

Helen Keller once said that “character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experience of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, ambition inspired, and success achieved.” Teyona Rodgers is this in real life.