Today we’d like to introduce you to Keri White.
Hi Keri, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I decided to start Opulent Kare after experiencing complications from my own “Mommy Makeover.” I began to experience shortness of breath and fatigue shortly after my two-week post-op appointment. The symptoms progressively got worse. I completed an examination on myself only to discover my lung sounds were abnormal!! My surgeon advised me to report to the ER. Upon admission, the ER doctor did not take my concerns attempting to discharge me without performing a CT scan. As a nurse, I knew this was a critical aspect of my treatment plan; therefore, I refused to take no for an answer. My CT scan revealed multiple pulmonary emboli (blood clots) to three lobes of my lungs two hours later. I was transferred to the hospital by ambulance, where I spent the next two days. I was subsequently placed on blood thinners for several months until the blood clots resolved. Needless to say, this was a scary time for my family and me!
I have been a Registered Nurse for over 13 years and was not prepared to manage my own aftercare needs. This period was extremely stressful for myself and my husband. I was fortunate enough to have my husband act as my primary caregiver. I educated him on performing my wound care, managing my injections, performing catheters when I could not urinate, etc. He will be the first to tell you that recovery is NOT for the faint at heart. I found that cosmetic surgeons emphasize the end result- what your incisions look like, how much you’re draining, is your pain controlled, and your overall appearance. There is no one checking your vital signs, your lungs, or ensuring that you are OK on the inside. I was able to identify and manage my complications due to my education and experience. What about everyone else? People think cosmetic surgery is easy with minimal risks.
This is not the case! Surgery (any type) is a big deal! I recognized there was a lack of medically oriented aftercare services in the Houston area. I underestimated my recovery by a long shot. How many others go home only to realize they are ill-prepared to manage their needs? I didn’t have a name or a business model, but I did recognize the need for medically focused aftercare. I combined my education, nursing experience, and my personal aftercare experience to define my business model. My goal is to provide a holistic approach to aftercare-focusing on the physical, emotional, and medical aspects of care. My employees are not personal caregivers they are licensed medical professionals trained to identify problems and manage those problems in the home proactively. I consider my team an extension of the surgeon. We strive to ensure your entire surgical experience is exceptional. Clients make a significant investment in their surgical procedures. Aftercare should not be an afterthought. It is an investment.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The road has not been easy! The decision to start a business during a pandemic was bonkers! Add graduate school and family life to the mix for the heck of it! Keeping yourself motivated when things are not moving as smoothly as you feel they should is a major challenge. The most challenging thing has been getting people to understand the value of aftercare services.
We’ve been impressed with Opulent Kare, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Opulent Kare is a luxury concierge postoperative care provider; specializing in the aftercare of cosmetic surgery patients. We pride ourselves on our clinical expertise, discretion, and professionalism. We are 100% mobile, and our staff is composed of only licensed medical professionals. Our staff travel to your Air BnB, home, or hotel to ensure you maintain your privacy during these unprecedented times. Our offerings include both hourly and day packages and mobile lymphatic drainage massages, meals, supplies, and transportation for our clientele.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
My husband has been my biggest supporter throughout this process. I am extremely blessed to have an amazing village of friends and family who have encouraged me along the way.
Contact Info:
- Email: info@opulentkare.com
- Website: www.opulentkare.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/opulentkare
- Facebook: facebook.com/opulentkare
Image Credits
Rhea Whitney Photography
