I have worked in healthcare for the past 15 years. I have always had a passion to help people. It all started in high school when I volunteered at a local convalescent center. I later worked at a community health center where I was able to educate community members on diabetes prevention. At the age of 24 I was diagnosed with leukemia and later needed a bone marrow transplant. I later returned to working in health care. As I was going through cancer treatment and experiencing its challenges of highs and lows, I was inspired to put together boxes of toiletries and goodies to newly diagnosed cancer patients. It was and is rewarding to provide a gift that will put a smile on someone’s face.
About Mercedes Renee Eldridge
Q: Please tell us about your current, past, or future career. What do you love most about what you do?
I have a bachelors degree in psychology. I love to help people in anyway I can whether it’s providing them with resources or simply a helping hand.
Q: What advice would you give to people?
Treat others as you would want to be treated.
Q: Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
In 5 to 10 years, I hope to obtain a masters degree in psychology and work in behavioral health.
Mercedes Renee Eldridge & Our Community
Q: What are a few of your favorite restaurants in our community?
Maritza’s is on my favorite local restaurants for Mexican food.
Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community?
I had lived in Clairmont for three years.
Q: If you could choose anyone alive today and not a relative, with whom would you love to have lunch? Why? And where locally would you meet for this lunch?
I would choose my bone marrow donor. I would love to chat with and thank him for giving my life.
For Fun
Q: What is one of your favorite movies? TV shows?
The Voice.
Q: (Even for friends or family), what is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
Most people don’t know that I have parasailed, and rocked climbed and repelled down a cliff in Lake Tahoe.
Q: Who inspires you to be better?
My mom. She is my best friend.
Q: What community organizations and/or local nonprofits do you admire/support?
I admire the San Diego blood bank for all they do to educate the community about the importance of donating blood to save lives.
Q: What Neighborhood do you live in?
Clairemont
What I love about my Neighborhood:
I love that Clairemont has a plethora of eateries, coffee shops, and shopping centers nearby.
Please describe your ideal San Diego weekend:
My ideal San Diego weekend would be a walk on the beach, coffee at a local coffee shop
Q: Finally, what words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
Home is where the heart is.
