Your Nurses & Co-Founders
Kristen
HYDE, RN, BSN, CGCM, CDP
Co-Founder
I felt the desire to become a nurse early in life thanks to the strong influence of my parents. I always admired the shared devotion they had toward their careers and children. My mother is a retired nurse who served in our military and my father is a retired cardiologist. I received my nursing training and education from St. Anselm College, earning my BSN in 1997.
My nursing journey began on a Medical-Surgical unit at Saint Elizabeth’s Medical Center in Boston. After moving to Cape Cod, I continued my career with Cape Cod Healthcare. However, it was in Assisted Living and Memory Care where I found my true calling.
Working with seniors and their families has been the most rewarding aspect of my entire career. In the Assisted Living community environment, I have had the privilege of hearing seniors’ life stories, appreciating their wisdom, and valuing their experiences. This passion led me to co-found Back Nine Nurses, where we continue to provide comprehensive and empathetic care.
Deborah
O'KELLY, RN, BSN, CGCM, CDP
Co-Founder
My journey to nursing began when I became a mother. The natural caregiving instincts that emerged during motherhood led me to recognize my genuine calling as a nurse. I’m grateful to have entered nursing later in life, as I could draw upon my many life experiences during my education and training.
My decision to focus on geriatric nursing after earning my BSN was a natural choice, inspired by my close relationship with my grandparents. Growing up next door to them, and later helping to care for them, created strong bonds that shaped my career path. Those cherished experiences with my grandparents guided me toward specializing in older adult care.
The most meaningful moments of my nursing career have been the simple ones – sitting down for heartfelt conversations with residents, joining them in dance and music activities, and listening as families share their personal stories. These interactions inspired me to co-found Back Nine Nurses. In this role, I’ve been able to blend my personal background, nursing skills, and ombudsman experience while building lasting connections with seniors and their families. The privilege of making their daily lives more manageable brings me lasting fulfillment.
I believe that people are put in your path for a reason. After a recent hospitalization with my mom, I was in a panic about how to make sure she got to her appointments and have her watched over while I went back to NY to work and my family. Back Nine Nurses answered my prayers. Their empathetic ear, care and compassion they have shown to my mom as well as to me and my family is more than I could have ever expected. They are truly a blessing.
– Family Member, Assisted Living Community Resident