An Early
Calling Sheila Driver
During the season when we are more aware of our blessings, it is a no-brainer to be thankful for quality medical care here in the High Country. Ashe County is no exception. We are fortunate to have skilled professionals as quality health care resources in our small town. Sheila Driver, a Board Certified Pediatric Nurse Practioner, offers special care to Ashe County folks from her office, Ashe Pediatrics, PLLC in downtown West Jefferson. Sheila is originally from a small town in Franklin County which is located in the eastern part of the state and neighbors Wake County where our state capital is situated. She was born the seventh of eight children and credits her professional compassion to the strong sense of family that she acquired when growing up. Undoubtedly, “being raised with seven brothers and sisters led me down a path of helping.”
Sheila Driver their denominational affiliation. It made me realize how important it is to have faith in God because that was a major part of what made them so strong.” Her grandparent’s example of faith is what inspired Sheila’s faith and it’s that faith which led her to embrace her career in medicine as a ministry. Prayer is a constant in her life as she ministers to patients as a health care provider. She loves the way the medical field has given her many opportunities to make a difference and help others.
Her grandparent’s example of faith is what inspired Sheila’s faith and it’s that faith which led her to embrace her career in medicine as a ministry.
She recalls, as a young child, going to visit her sick grandma at the nursing home. Her grandma was blind but never failed to comment on Shelia’s hands. Her grandmother insisted, just by feeling Shelia’s hands, that her occupation should be that of a nurse. Although Sheila wanted to grow up and become a lawyer, her grandmother’s insight was a guiding force in her career choice.
Sheila grew up alternating between churches. Her grandmother was of the Baptist faith, while her grandfather professed the Methodist faith. The way they made that work for the family was by alternating churches on Sundays. “That has made a lasting impression on me,” Sheila said, “because their faith mattered to them more than
In the Bible, Jesus is often depicted as The Great Physician. Jesus made it his mission to reach out into a hurting world and offer healing and hope, especially to the impoverished and needy. He continues His mission today by utilizing His servants to offer hope to those who are spiritually ill, healing to those who are physically unhealthy, and comfort to those who are afflicted mentally and emotionally. In her role as a pediatric health care provider, Shelia can offer those same resources as an instrument in the hands of Jesus. Time and time again God allows Shelia and her staff at Ashe Pediatrics the opportunity to minister to children, adolescents, and their families. In Sheila’s world, every day brings different challenges and in knowing that, she begins each day at 5:30 a.m. with a swim. The exercise gives her the opportunity to practice self-care, but also time to take a stab at solving problems.
