Her Clients Count on Her. This Is What Team Support Looks Like.

When pediatric nurse Alex faces bouts of her own illness and disability, her BAYADA team shows up for her as they do for clients and families.

At BAYADA, we believe a meaningful nursing career is possible for everyone—no matter what life may bring. This Disability Awareness Month, we’re honored to spotlight our employee Alexandra Townsend, a dedicated pediatric RN who manages a rare and complex health condition of her own.

Alex’s story reflects not only her own resilience and professionalism but also how her team’s understanding, flexibility, and support put true inclusion into action.

BAYADA is also excited and proud to have been recognized as a Best Place to Work for Disability Inclusion in the 2025 Disability:IN (Disability Index) Report—an acknowledgment of the intentional work and high standards BAYADA strives to uphold every day.

Alexandra’s Story

In 2017, while working as a pediatric hospital floor nurse, I began experiencing a wide array of seemingly unconnected symptoms. Over time, I assembled a team of nine different specialists trying to solve the puzzle.

In 2018, I was diagnosed with Hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (hEDS), a rare connective tissue disorder that affects collagen throughout the body. If you imagine your body as a house, individuals with hEDS are built the same as you, but the house is held together with rubber nails and screws. Over time, things fall apart.

Each case of hEDS is unique, and although I might look normal to others, my body was dealing with widespread issues, making everyday tasks difficult. At one point, I couldn’t even walk my dogs around the block, struggled to eat, and was constantly in pain.

After months of dedicated therapy and following my treatment plan, I began to feel more like my old self. I worked full time with BAYADA for about four years—both as a nurse and a clinical manager—until another frightening setback.

Having chronic medical conditions gives me a unique perspective and empathy for my clients and their families. I consider myself a strong and knowledgeable advocate, and I am a voice for minority populations both in my current work at BAYADA and in my future career goals as I pursue a Master of Public Health degree.

This past year was especially challenging. I was hospitalized for about 20 days and out of work for several months while receiving an additional rare disease diagnosis. Throughout this time, BAYADA’s support was unwavering. Since returning in May, I’ve been slowly working my way back to full time, aiming to be back fully by September. I love my BAYADA family—clients and colleagues alike.

Alexandra’s journey is a powerful reminder that excellent nursing comes in many forms. With teamwork and the right support, she can thrive in her nursing role while prioritizing her health and well-being.

We are proud of Alex and her team. They inspire us every day and show what’s possible when talent, care, and compassion come together in a supportive community.

• Explore careers at BAYADA.
• Employees, refer a friend to join our team.
• Read about our Best Place to Work, 2025 Disability Index award.
• Learn about BAYADA’s SAFE Employee Resource Council.