AnnMarie Cross

Excited to join this group who speak the same language I do…Advocacy! 😀

I am a career nurse case manager with the last 20 years in hospital case management leadership. Retiring in December!

I owned an independent advocate business from 2019-2025. In 2026, I founded The American Senior Citizen, LLC to focus on written and video content expanding the reach for patients, families and caregivers who are seeking real-world solutions quickly.

I look forward to connecting, collaborating and celebrating the wins with all of you 👏

Hi Everyone!

I’m Lisa Jo McLendon, a registered nurse with over 30 years of experience, primarily in CVICU and Geriatric Behavioral Health. About five years ago, I transitioned into healthcare advocacy, and I couldn't be happier! It is becoming the most meaningful chapter of my career.

I’m a lifelong learner at heart. Along the way, I obtained my Life & Health Insurance License and Long‑Term Care Certification so I can better support seniors and families planning for the cost of aging. Long‑term care planning has become a true passion of mine, and I’m actively expanding my expertise to best help clients meet the cost of their long‑term care.

I’m grateful to be part of this community of advocates who are committed to raising the standard of care.

I’m always happy to connect, collaborate, or support in any way I can.

Warmly,
Lisa Jo

Hi everyone, I’ve really enjoyed reading through everyone’s introductions—it’s inspiring to see the different paths that brought people into this work.

My name is ShaTonga, and I come from a mental health and social services background with over 25 years of experience. I’ve worked with youth, families, adults, and the elderly, mainly in case management, care coordination, and intensive family-based work. A lot of my experience has been supporting individuals with complex needs, helping them stay stable in the community, and working with families to navigate systems that can feel overwhelming.

My interest in patient advocacy also comes from personal experience. Supporting my mother through her healthcare journey really showed me how challenging it can be to navigate care, even with a background in this field. That experience pushed me to move more into advocacy and focus on helping individuals and families better understand and manage their care.

I’m currently working toward my certification in patient advocacy and building my own practice. I’m looking forward to connecting with others here and continuing to grow in this work.

I can attest that when my husband was in the sub-acute rehab for 60 days, not a single staff member ever said, «Here's your toothbrush and spit cup.» If I wasn't there that day, the teeth didn't get brushed.

That was last year, and he just went through an extraction. UGH!

Shelbey, I've sent several people to your GNA profile recently. Hopefully they turn into business for you.

great article, Shelbey

Great job, Jeff!

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