Inspiring Conversations with Ana Santos-Burks of ZenDrips & Wellness

Today we’d like to introduce you to Ana Santos-Burks.

Hi Ana, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself. 
My journey from the Dominican Republic to founding ZenDrips & Wellness, PLLC, is a testament to the incredible power of perseverance, determination, and unwavering belief in one’s dreams. Arriving in the US as a teenager with limited English proficiency was daunting, but I embraced the challenge with unwavering determination. Despite the initial obstacles, I never lost sight of my ambition to become a doctor, inspired by my father’s legacy. Though my path took unexpected turns, including setbacks in college and the joys and responsibilities of starting a family, I refused to let go of my aspirations. Encouraged by my spouse’s unwavering support, I embarked on a journey into nursing, a decision that would change the course of my life. 

Guided by mentors like Ms. Carter, who saw my potential and nurtured my skills, I flourished in my nursing career. The compassionate care I provided and the lives I touched fueled my passion for healthcare. 

Driven by a desire to do more and make a difference, I transitioned to become a Nurse Practitioner, embracing the opportunity to be at the forefront of patient care and decision-making. This decision marked the beginning of the most rewarding chapter of my career. 

My time working with veterans at the VA opened my eyes to the pressing healthcare needs in our community, particularly during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic. It was then that the idea of ZenDrips & Wellness, PLLC, was born—a beacon of hope for those in need of accessible, compassionate healthcare. 

With ZenDrips & Wellness, PLLC, I am on a mission to promote wellness and empower individuals to take control of their health journey. Through services like medical weight loss and IV hydration, I strive to bridge the gap in healthcare accessibility, ensuring that everyone, regardless of insurance status, can receive the care they deserve. 

My journey is a testament to the power of resilience, compassion, and the relentless pursuit of one’s dreams. I hope that my story inspires others to never give up on their aspirations, to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, and to always strive to make a positive impact in the lives of those around them. 

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Navigating the transition from a nursing mindset to a business mindset has indeed presented its share of challenges along the way. As nurses, we’re ingrained with a selfless dedication to caring for others, often without expecting anything in return. This inherent altruism can sometimes clash with the realities of running a business. 

One of the primary struggles I’ve encountered is striking a balance between providing compassionate care and ensuring the sustainability of my business. Initially, I found myself in situations where individuals sought out my services but failed to honor their financial commitments. This underscored a fundamental lesson: while our instinct as nurses may be to prioritize helping others above all else, a business operates within a framework where services rendered must be compensated. 

Learning to advocate for fair compensation for the time, effort, and resources invested in providing quality care has been a significant learning curve. It’s been a journey of recognizing the value of my expertise and the services I provide and understanding that financial viability is essential for the continuity of my business. 

Moreover, separating the nurturing instincts of nursing from the pragmatic decision-making required in business operations has been an ongoing challenge. While my dedication to compassionate care remains unwavering, I’ve had to develop strategies to ensure that the business aspects, such as billing and financial management, receive the attention they deserve. 

Although this transition hasn’t been without its hurdles, it’s also been a transformative process of growth and self-discovery. I continue to refine my approach, striving to find harmony between my nursing ethos and the demands of entrepreneurship. Ultimately, each obstacle has served as a valuable lesson, guiding me toward a more balanced and sustainable business model. 

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
At our core, we’re a pioneering healthcare service driven by a commitment to enhancing well-being and convenience. As a nurse practitioner board certified in IV hydration services, medical weight loss, and virtual minor care visits, our mission is to deliver comprehensive, personalized care directly to our client’s doorsteps. 

What sets us apart is our innovative mobile service model. Gone are the days of enduring long waits in clinic rooms or navigating through busy medical facilities. Instead, we bring the expertise and convenience of our services right to our clients’ homes. This approach not only prioritizes comfort and accessibility but also ensures a tailored experience that caters to individual needs. 

As a nurse practitioner, I bring a unique blend of medical expertise and compassionate care to every visit. Beyond administering IV hydration therapy, I have the capability to address a wide range of health concerns, prescribe medications, and provide holistic support during each session. It’s akin to having a trusted concierge primary care provider at your disposal, offering personalized attention and medical guidance in the comfort of your own home. 

One aspect we take immense pride in is our commitment to education and communication. Fluent in both English and Spanish, we strive to bridge any language barriers and empower our clients with comprehensive information about the IV drips being administered. Our goal is not only to provide immediate relief and rejuvenation but also to foster long-term wellness through informed decision-making and health-conscious choices. 

While there are many exceptional IV hydration therapy centers and businesses, we distinguish ourselves by our unwavering dedication to personalized care, convenience, and client empowerment. We invite you to experience the difference firsthand and embark on a journey to optimal health and vitality with us. 

What matters most to you? Why?
Self-care is paramount to me, particularly given my background as a nurse. Over the years, I’ve witnessed a concerning trend where individuals, especially those in public service roles, neglect their own health while tirelessly attending to the needs of others. This reality hit home for me in 2019 when I was diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes mellitus amidst the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Initially, I underestimated the importance of self-care, only to find myself engulfed in misery, lethargy, and depression as obesity took its toll. 

It was a turning point when I made the decision to reclaim control over my health. Embracing Pilates, coupled with the initiation of diabetic medications and IV hydration therapy, marked the beginning of a transformative journey. Witnessing the positive shifts in my energy levels and overall well-being reinforced my belief in the vital role of self-care. I’ve come to understand that nurturing ourselves is not just a luxury but a prerequisite for happiness and the pursuit of our life goals. In essence, prioritizing self-care isn’t merely an act of indulgence; it’s a fundamental investment in our physical, mental, and emotional resilience. By attending to our own needs, we equip ourselves with the strength and vitality needed to continue serving others effectively while leading fulfilling lives. 

Contact Info:

• Website: www.zendripsiv.com
• Instagram: instagram.com/zendripswellness
• Facebook: facebook.com/zendripswellness

Image Credits
Studio SM2