At Compassus, our mission is rooted in compassion and connection. Each one of our teammates who dedicates their time to advancing well-being and quality of life for those we serve has an impactful story to tell. Hospice Regional Vice President Brad Blanks share what drives him to make a difference every day and why he is passionate about his role at Compassus.
Q: What personal values drive you in your role, and how does your work align with those values?
A: My career goal has always been simple: to find a role where I never dread going to work or come home angry or in a bad mood. I wanted to make a difference. The medical system can be tough and messy, but an experience with my son inspired me to take this path. He began having seizures with alarming frequency, and despite seeing multiple doctors, all we got were medications that didn’t work and turned him into a zombie. Then we met the right doctor, someone who took the time to understand the cause of the seizures. That care and compassion cured my son and changed our family’s trajectory. I realized I wanted to be that kind of person for others. In my work with home health and hospice leadership, I strive to make a difference for patients, referral sources, and teammates. Leadership gave me the chance to redefine how to lead—with empathy and care.
Q: What was the defining moment that made you feel proud to be part of this team or field?
A: When Hurricane Ida devastated our NOLA program, I joined Jeremy Bolling, division president and Susan Markland, hospice regional executive of clinical operations, to support our team. Jeremy and I worked with the home office to load a trailer with supplies and drove to New Orleans. Standing in our DCS’s front yard, unloading supplies, multiple nurses and hospice aides came by—not to talk about themselves but to ask if they could start visiting patients again. Their selflessness amazed me. Compassus supported a request for a fuel truck to provide gas for teammates’ cars and generators. For over a week, I drove 2.5 hours each way to pump gas for our team. That support embodied what makes this organization special.
Q: How do you feel your work makes a difference for the people we serve or the team around you?
A: I believe in the quote: “Never doubt that a small group of dedicated and hardworking people can change the world.” Every day, what we do creates a ripple effect—impacting teammates, patients, and countless others.
Q: What part of your job gives you the most satisfaction or fulfillment? Why?
A: I love seeing our team in the spotlight. Personal recognition is nice, but nothing beats watching our team members get celebrated for the difference they make. I firmly believe in the power of a positive, passionate attitude. Every day, I’m motivated by the opportunity to help someone achieve what they thought was impossible. I love seeing our team succeed.
Q: How has working here helped you grow or develop, personally or professionally?
A: I’ve learned so much here. While I had significant leadership experience before, this organization’s focus on teammates’ well-being over financial impact was a revelation. Mentors like Jeremy Bolling, Laura Templeton, and Andrew Monroe have shaped my growth.
Q: If you were to tell a friend or family member why your work matters, what would you say?
A: No one should have to walk their final journey alone. Hospice allows patients to pass away with dignity, at home, surrounded by loved ones. Recently, someone called me “Billy Stay,” referencing a Zach Bryan song about a man’s final moments at home. That story encapsulates what we do—we make “Billy Stay” moments possible.
Q: What’s one story or interaction with a patient/client that reminds you why you’re here?
A: There are countless moments, but one of the most meaningful was caring for my father-in-law. Watching our team provide exceptional care in his final days reaffirmed why this work matters.
Q: How do you see your work impacting the larger goals of the organization or community?
A: I bring passion, energy, and motivation that I hope inspire others to approach situations with positivity. That attitude can create a ripple effect across the team and community. We GET to do this every day. This isn’t just a job; it’s a calling. What we do matters deeply, and it’s both a heavy burden and an incredible honor.
Q: What aspect of your role do you feel is often overlooked but is important to your “why”?
A: With such a large region, I can’t always be physically present. While virtual meetings help, there’s no substitute for being in the same room. I’ve always felt my greatest strength is connecting with people in person.
