Meet Gabe, a military veteran dedicated to making a difference in and out of work.
What's been your favorite moment at Blue Shield?
I have a couple. One was the first time I helped a terminally-ill member who had issues with her coverage. I was able to advocate on her behalf and got everything taken care of for her. The call ended in happy tears. It was that moment I realized the impact we have on peoples' lives. The other moment was when I went from a contractor to a full-time employee here, as I knew I wanted to be part of this amazing team!
What has made your experience here meaningful?
The most meaningful thing at Blue Shield is that the people, my co-workers, are my extended family. We all have bonded and are like one big, crazy work family who is always here for each another.
What are you most proud of?
What I'm most proud of was graduating from Marine Corps Bootcamp. It was something I always wanted to do when I was young. I became a Marine and followed in my grandfather's footsteps. I served proudly! (Check out the employee resource group Operation V.E.T. that honors and supports veterans.)
What are three things you can't live without?
I can't live without my family, music and the ocean. I come from a very large family and have always cherished every minute I get to spend with them. Our family events are always crowded, loud, and sometimes obnoxious, and I wouldn't have it any other way.
The other two kind of go hand-in-hand. As Jimi Hendrix once said, “Music is my religion," and that's how it is for me as well. And being that I'm Hawaiian, the ocean has always been my sanctuary. If I have my music and the waves crashing at the same time, it's like heaven for me.
Anything else you want to add?
The most meaningful thing at Blue Shield is that the people, my co-workers, are my extended family. We all have bonded and are like one big, crazy work family who is always here for each another.