In a recent episode of A Good Pour, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Jenny Dittes from Hope Family Health—a place that embodies its name by offering more than just medical care; it offers hope. From the moment Jenny began sharing the story behind Hope Family Health, I was struck by how deeply this organization is rooted in the community and driven by a mission that goes beyond typical healthcare.
The Birth of Hope in a Small Town
Hope Family Health opened its doors in 2005, starting humbly in a double-wide trailer in Macon County, Tennessee. Jenny, a Family Practice Physician Assistant, saw a glaring need for healthcare services that didn’t discriminate based on insurance status or ability to pay. “We opened with the mission of providing a different kind of healthcare,” Jenny explained. It was a leap of faith during a challenging time in her life, but she was guided by a vision of a place where everyone could access the care they needed—no strings attached.
Why Westmoreland?
Westmoreland, a small town just 30 miles north of Gallatin, may not seem like the obvious choice for a healthcare facility. But for Jenny, it was the perfect fit. “Grow where you’re planted,” she said, reflecting on her move to the area and her love for small towns. Westmoreland’s unique challenges, from economic struggles to health disparities, made it a community in need of the kind of care Hope Family Health could provide. The stark differences between Westmoreland and nearby towns like Gallatin and Hendersonville highlighted just how essential this facility was.
The Real Impact of Health on Life
One of the most powerful moments in our conversation was when Jenny shared her observations about the early deaths in her patient population. Many of her patients were dying far too young—often in their 50s and 60s. After years of seeing this trend, Jenny conducted her own informal study and found that these deaths were often linked to what she called “diseases of hopelessness.” These included substance abuse, suicides, and preventable health conditions like cardiovascular disease. It was a stark reminder that our bodies are indeed temples, and taking care of them is crucial not just for physical health, but for the overall quality of life.
What Does a Good Day Look Like?
When I asked Jenny what a good day looks like for her, she didn’t hesitate: “A good day is a day when I can make a difference.” She spoke about the importance of connection, love, and making life better for others—values that resonate deeply with the work we do at Good Circle Marketing. Jenny’s dedication to creating meaningful relationships and providing compassionate care is truly inspiring.
Bringing Hope to Gallatin
Hope Family Health recently expanded to a new location in Gallatin, next to Sumner Regional Medical Center. This new office is already becoming a vital resource for the community, offering comprehensive care that integrates both medical and behavioral health services. Whether you’re insured, uninsured, or somewhere in between, Hope Family Health is there to help.
Taking Care of Ourselves to Serve Others
Before wrapping up our conversation, I couldn’t resist asking Jenny how she takes care of herself while doing such important work. Her response was both honest and relatable—she’s burned out before, and she’s learned the hard way that self-care isn’t selfish. In 2022, during a particularly challenging time, Jenny took a month-long backpacking trip on the Colorado Trail. This journey, she said, was a time for healing, reconnection, and renewing her sense of purpose. “Don’t wait to do the things that really matter,” she advised. Whether it’s a small act like reorganizing your kitchen or a big adventure like a through-hike, taking time for yourself is essential.
Supporting Hope
If you’re looking for a healthcare provider that truly cares about you as a whole person, Hope Family Health is there for you. They offer a sliding fee scale for the uninsured, accept most insurance plans, and provide a range of services to support your physical and mental well-being. Jenny and her team are doing incredible work in our community, and I encourage you to support them in any way you can.
Jenny, thank you for all the good work you do and for spreading hope where it’s needed most. We all need a little more hope in our lives, especially when it comes to our health.
Let’s make today a good day!
Interested in learning more about Hope Family Health or supporting their mission? Visit their new office in Gallatin or check out their website to find out how you can get involved.