Today, we’d like to introduce you to Leandrea Long.
Hi Leandrea, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. Before we get into specifics, could you briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I started out an island girl from the Bahamas coming to America to get an education. I was inspired to become a Nurse through my love for helping people. I graduated from Bethune Cookman University in 2006 with my undergraduate degree in Nursing, then I received a Masters degree as a Clinical Nurse Leader in 2010 and a Post Masters certificate from UMASS Boston as a board certified Family Nurse Practitioner in 2015. I became a Certified Lymphedema Therapist in 2020.
I was a Vascular Surgical Nurse Practitioner for 7 years and prior to that a bedside Registered Nurse for 10 years working in different capacities that include leadership and management, as an assistant nurse manager, new graduate preceptor, mentor and relief charge nurse. My entire career was in the acute care setting (hospital ). I was at a point in my career where I needed a change. So I decided to start my own business helping a very special group of people. People who have Lymphedema.
As a vascular NP, I saw firsthand the revolving door of this patient population, and it was simply that they weren’t getting the care they needed outside of the hospital to prevent hospitalization. Seeing this need in my community ignited a passion and mission to start my own business dedicated to this special population. Lymphatic Aesthetics L.A. Wellness Center was born. We are a mobile medical and aesthetics clinic where we bring health and wellness to you in the comfort of your home, hotel, or Airbnb.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Absolutely not. There were many obstacles, first the fact that I have never owned my own business and did not know what being an entrepreneur truly was. I didn’t know where to start but some how God allowed the steps to be reveled at the right time.
Some of the challenges I face early on was trying to run my business while still working full time at the hospital after a year and half, I knew if I wanted to get to the next level in my business I would have to give up my full time job which was one of the hardest decisions I have ever made. Another challenge was gaining clientele, social media marketing, putting systems and processes in place to allow the business to run smoothly.
The most significant challenge I have encounter and still struggle with is having harmony (balance). Being a solopreneur is tough, so making sure I have time carved out for my family, myself and for my business is very important. Everything is scheduled and placed on a calendar to keep me organized.
Thanks. What else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
Although I started out with treating one specific patient population, my business has grown and evolved. I now also offer post-operative care, IV hydration, telehealth services, vitamin shots and body contouring services. Lymphedema is still my primary focus. I always get asked what lymphedema is, Lymphedema is a chronic condition resulting in swelling of a body part.
This is usually seen in cancer survivors who’ve had chemotherapy or radiation therapy and whose lymphatic system is damaged. This particular service includes complete decongestive therapy, which involves multi-layered compression wrapping, manual lymphatic drainage, skin and nail care, and exercise recommendations. I also provide counseling on compression garments to help manage the swelling. I provide telehealth services in three states Florida, Delaware and Maryland. I am known for providing in home Lymphedema services.
I am most proud that I did not give up on my business; I stuck with it even though it was hard, and it still is. I am proud to create a service that is needed in my community, and I have been able to help over 100 people live healthier, more productive lives. The fact that I am a nurse practitioner who also has a vascular surgical background in venous diseases, is a women-owned minority business, and provides services to her clients in their homes, hotels, or Airbnb sets me apart completely.
CLTs are typically Physical therapists; I am that rare occasion that is considered a Provider, meaning I can diagnose and prescribe as well as a therapist who has the training and the qualifications to treat this very special chronic condition.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
It took me a while to find a coach and not really a mentor. I believe that seeking out someone who has done what you are trying to do would be a great person to ask to mentor you. I would encourage others to join a few local organizations that are within and out of their niche.
Doing this will help with networking with others from different industries and learning new things from people within your industry. Approach networking events as an opportunity to increase your net worth and always be ready to tell your story.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.leandrealong.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lawellnesscenterllc/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100068331606461
- Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/leandrea-long-515066118
