My early adulthood was defined by a tremendous amount of loss and pain. For years, I was in a dark abyss, doubtful I would ever summon the strength to pull out of it. When I did, there was a sense of urgency to make a difference in the lives of others and leave this world better than how I found it. Initially, finding a work life that aligned with my focus felt impossible. Working for a large corporation and being able to live out my purpose? Yeah, right.

And, yet, that is exactly what I found at Magellan—a greater purpose.

Everything I do ties back to Magellan’s massive transformative purpose to lead humanity to healthy, vibrant lives. I see that purpose manifest in our work helping our members recover from serious physical or behavioral health conditions.

I’ve seen a man who had previously attempted suicide find hope, make friends and discover connection in a faith community; I’ve seen a woman trade in a life of continuous relapse for one of stability; I’ve seen a young person struggling with his identity to link to a LQBTQ+ support group and re-enroll into school. I’ve seen countless member’s lives changed for the better. These individuals faced physical or behavioral health challenges which improved when we identified what really mattered to them and helped them attain these things. When I reflect on seeing triumphs such as these, I can’t help but think of Gary.

I met Gary right before he saw his new apartment for the first time. That’s all he ever wanted—stable housing. We set out to get it for him. Our care coordination health guide found Gary an apartment and our recovery support navigator worked with him to prepare his transition from homelessness. During the fifteen years leading up to this moment, Gary’s life was defined by addiction, it disconnected him from his daughter and caused heartache for his mother who always picked him up after he had relapsed.

As Gary showed me around his apartment, pointing out with pride where he would make his coffee in the mornings and where he would do his daily meditation, it was hard to believe his past was ridden with darkness. The man before me spoke excitedly about being able to entertain friends and cook meals for himself. We were part of that.

Gary’s story is just one among many that have changed the way I view my work. Helping someone get their life back on track brings me a deep sense of purposeful satisfaction that is hard to understand unless you’ve experienced it firsthand.

It’s what we do at Magellan. I’m proud to be a part of that and we’d like you to be part of that too. Join us.