About Us
HEARD for Life is led by Kayla Thompson-Riviere, a seasoned healthcare professional with over a decade of hands-on experience in fast-paced care environments, including emergency departments and intensive care units. As a Registered Nurse, Kayla developed a deep understanding of chronic medical conditions and gained expertise in managing complex, rapidly evolving clinical situations with sharp critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Kayla’s unique blend of compassion and clarity enables her to address patient concerns with empathy while breaking down complicated medical jargon into easily digestible information. Her extensive experience has proven the profound impact that a skilled, knowledgeable nurse can have on patient outcomes.
In November 2022, after facing her own healthcare challenges, Kayla experienced firsthand the frustration of navigating the system while being sick herself. That experience ignited her passion for patient advocacy, and after recovering, she decided to dedicate her career to helping others navigate the healthcare system more effectively. In May 2023, she launched HEARD for Life: Health Empowerment through Advocacy, for patients’ Rights and Dignities (HFL), with a mission to guide patients toward better health outcomes with fewer complications.
With preventable medical errors claiming over 250,000 lives annually in U.S. hospitals, Kayla is committed to driving that number as close to zero as possible by advocating for patients’ rights and quality care.
Outside of her professional life, Kayla enjoys spending quality time with her husband and two sons, whether at home or exploring the outdoors. She also expresses her creativity through painting and is known for her talent in the kitchen.