Hello, my name is Heather Aldridge, and I have been proudly working for Westhills Village since 2016.  I was taught the true meaning of hard work and perseverance.  I have three beautiful children who look up to me as their role model, and every day I work hard to give them the life they deserve.  Westhills Village has provided me with the opportunity, stability, and professional growth.  I am deeply thankful for the support and sense of family I’ve experienced working for such a wonderful company.

Working at Westhills Village has shaped my future and laid the foundation for my nursing career.  I grew to truly love caring for residents, especially during a time in their lives when they depend on caregivers for like me for comfort, support, and assistance with their daily needs.    Building trust and meaningful relationships with each resident became one of the most rewarding parts of my job.  Those moments taught me compassion, patience, and the importance of human connection.  It was during this time I discovered my passion for caring for the elderly and knew I wanted to become a nurse.

In 2022, I began working in Home Health at Westhills Village.  This position gave me the flexibility and stability I needed as a single mother to pursue my LPN degree at Western Dakota Technical College.  I began my studies, balancing long class days, early morning clinicals and the responsibilities of raising my children.  In May 2025, I graduated with my Licensed Practical Nursing Degree.  This was a HUGE accomplishment for me!  It was truly one of the most meaningful moments of my life, and I am proud to be the role model I always hoped my children would look up to.

I began working as a nurse in Healthcare at Westhills Village in June 2025 and it is a rewarding transition from C N A to nurse.  I am extremely grateful to the Employee Academic Assistance Program and its members for helping make my education possible.  The donations and support have had a lasting impact on my life, my career, and my family’s future.  Thank you for believing in me, and for giving employees like me the opportunity to grow and achieve goals!  Thank you!