Meet Ardelia Mays | Registered Nurse and Entrepreneur

We had the good fortune of connecting with Ardelia Mays and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ardelia, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
My journey into entrepreneurship began unexpectedly when my daughter went missing for a few hours. Fueled by the anxiety of that experience, I conceived the idea of a discreet GPS tracking bracelet for children. Financial constraints and nursing school diverted my path momentarily, but as a registered nurse, I later witnessed the challenges faced by families dealing with Alzheimer’s and dementia. Inspired by a desire to ease their burden, I redirected my focus, creating a GPS bracelet for those at risk of wandering. That’s how my business journey unfolded – born from personal experiences and a commitment to providing safety and peace of mind for families facing similar struggles.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My journey as a registered nurse has been a lifelong calling rooted in childhood passion. From playing nurse as a child to graduating in 2001, overcoming challenges in nursing school with the support of my husband, and embracing the diverse experiences throughout my career, I’ve always been driven by a purpose to care for others.

What sets me apart is not just my professional expertise but a genuine empathy cultivated through personal experiences and interactions. I’m most proud of completing the nursing program while raising young children, a testament to my resilience and determination.

The lessons learned include the importance of unwavering support, effective communication, and a holistic approach to patient care. Every encounter has deepened my understanding of diverse health struggles, mentally, physically, and emotionally.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I’d ensure that my best friend would experience an unforgettable weekend getaway in Atlanta. The itinerary would include the experience of the city’s vibrant culture and iconic landmarks. Kick off the day with a hearty breakfast at the award-winning Atlanta Breakfast Club, savoring delights like Chicken & Waffles or Peach Cobbler French Toast. Dive into the wonders of marine life at the Georgia Aquarium, stroll through the historic Centennial Olympic Park, and indulge in dinner with panoramic views at The Sun Dial Restaurant atop the Westin Peachtree Plaza. Explore the fascinating World of Coca-Cola and delve into the rich history of Sweet Auburn, the birthplace of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., at the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park. Conclude the weekend at The Battery Atlanta, where top-tier restaurants and mixologists await, providing the perfect finale to an enriching and delightful Atlanta adventure

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I extend heartfelt gratitude to my husband, Gary Mays, whose unwavering support, patience, and belief fueled my dream of creating a GPS tracking bracelet. A special acknowledgement to my children and grandson, who kept me encouraged, never letting me give up. My gratitude extends to family and friends for their steadfast support. I’m indebted to my patient families who shared their stories about their loved ones who suffered with Alzheimer’s and Wandering, inspiring my journey. A big shoutout to Konstantin Dolgan of LA New Product Development Team (LA NPDT) for believing in my dream, defying skeptics, and creating a successful prototype when others said it was impossible. Together, we’re turning dreams into reality.

Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/ardelia-dixon-mays-621408a8

Other: GPS Tracking Bracelet | LA NPDT Electronics Prototyping Services https://lanpdt.com/portfolio/gps-tracking-bracelet-electronics-prototyping-services/