Reflecting on Women’s History Month

As Women’s History Month comes to a close, our Director reflects on the important women in her life.

Several times this month, during Zoom meetings, networking calls, and social distanced activities, I’ve been asked to share a woman who has inspired me. I could never choose one. I feel lucky that I have many wonderful women in my life and have time to reflect on their impact on me, my work, and Griswold Home Care.

Griswold Home Care was actually founded by a woman, so let’s start there. Jean Griswold was saddened by a preventable death of an elderly community member in 1982 and was driven to act. She founded the company at her dining room table. Not only was Jean a strong businesswoman in the 1980’s, building her original “Night Sitters” into over 200 home care offices nationwide, she also had multiple sclerosis. She was diagnosed at the age of 36 and was wheelchair bound, but continued to work actively until she was 79. I’m inspired by Jean’s action when she saw a problem, her empathy for those needing support, and her determination in her work. I always share Jean’s story when I talk about Griswold Home Care, as we continue to provide care in her name and legacy.

My mother was hired by Jean Griswold and has spent most of her career as an owner and operator of GHC franchise offices, in Delaware and now here in Montgomery County, Maryland. I grew up watching caregivers directly improve the quality of life for seniors in our community, and how hard my mom worked to provide quality care. My mom feels truly fulfilled working to improve the lives of seniors, and I am inspired by her drive to do more every day. She continues to work not only supporting our office in Bethesda but also as Chair of the Jean Griswold Foundation, a 501©3 providing grants to nonprofit organizations and families supporting respite and supportive services for those in need.

Tomorrow, I’m looking forward to adding another strong woman to our team as a Care Coordinator. Mara Consor is dedicated to our Griswoldness – respect, compassion, and empathy for all individuals we interact with. I look forward to learning from Mara’s experience.

I have countless other individuals in my life – my mother-in-law and sister-in-law who both work in healthcare, my sister who is a dedicated HR professional and mother, and friends who have overcome all types of obstacles to achieve success. I learn every day from them and others who continue to make a difference in the world.

Erin Pickrell and her mother, MaryAnne Murray