When I opened Etowah Pediatrics in 2006, I wanted to create a safe place for kids. A place where they felt safe to come to get treated when they’re sick.That’s the most important thing, because if you can build a relationship of trust, then you built a lifetime relationship. Whereas the children grow older they feel comfortable coming to you when they’re sick and when they have problems or if they have any questions that need answering. Because of all the effort we put into building those relationships with our patients, they know that they can come to us and we will help them be as healthy and happy as they can be.
Shelly Hester is Etowah Pediatrics’ practice manager and general queen of efficiency. As the co-founder of the practice with husband Dr. Ben Hester, Shelly knows how to build a business from the ground up and always keeps the mission at the heart of daily operations. Above all, she is committed to providing the best possible care for every child in Etowah County and beyond.
Originally from Georgia, Shelly grew up in Albany and studied early childhood education at The University of Georgia.
Since moving to Gadsden in 2000, she has become engrained in the community. She spends much of her time volunteering with organizations that promote good health, anti-bullying and literacy. She has held office in the Etowah County chapter of the Medical Managers Group Association (MGMA) and participated on the state level as well.
Ultimately, she would tell you her most valuable experience for running a pediatric office has been raising two children. She can empathize with parents of newborns or teens, and she understands the importance of keeping Etowah Pediatrics a positive, forward-looking and loving place to provide healthcare.
Learn More About Shelly!
What is your favorite piece of advice or quote?
“Bloom where you are planted.”
Who are some of the people in your life who inspire you the most and why?
My mother, who lead by example a life of inner strength and humility. She inspires me to believe I have it in me to dig deep when I need to, and to just accept people for who they are, without judgment. She was such a loving person.
If you could have one superpower, what would it be?
Flying! If I could fly, I could just pop over and see my friends wherever they lived. Love that idea!
What is your perfect weekend day? Describe what you would do and who you would be doing it with!
Windowing shopping with friends, or curled up with a good book and a cupcake.
Tell us a childhood story about when you were living your best life!
I loved living in Michigan as a child. Playing outside in the snow was the best! We went ice skating on the opening day of a local rink and were featured in the local newspaper. Growing up in a military family and living on base was an idyllic way to grow up.
What is your favorite part of your daily job that isn't part of your job description?
Sharing smiles with our little ones. Spending my day with a building full of people I like!
If I asked for your favorite Etowah Peds memories, what are some memories that come to mind?
After weeks of meticulous planning, the moment our first patient walked in the door and the nervous excitement we all felt. We all looked wide-eyed at each other, then put our plans into action and we were off to the races! It’s been a fun journey.
What is the best part of working at Etowah Pediatrics? What are the culture, people, and work like at Etowah Peds?
I work in a building full of people I like!