Inspired by his grandfather, who received a Purple Heart for injuries sustained in the South Pacific during WWII, Michael Perez enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1972. Working as a cryptologic technician, operating and managing various computerized information processing systems, Perez served until 1976 before returning stateside and launching a career in sales management that lasted for 30 years. By Jessica Jones

Inspired by his grandfather, who received a Purple Heart for injuries sustained in the South Pacific during WWII, Michael Perez enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1972. Working as a cryptologic technician, operating and managing various computerized information processing systems, Perez served until 1976 before returning stateside and launching a career in sales management that lasted for 30 years. But after acting as a caregiver for a close family member just a few years ago and learning first-hand how many families struggle to find high-quality care for their loved ones, Perez decided to pursue an entirely new professional endeavor.

Launching their franchise in Santa Barbara, California, in 2017, Perez and his wife, Sharon, relied on their former professional experiences to build their business.

“Before becoming a franchise owner, Sharon spent nearly 35 years in the healthcare field,” Perez said, detailing Sharon’s experiences as a full-time medical missionary in Costa Rica, where she served in a hospital near the Amazon rain forest. “She has such a big heart serving others who need care, and I have a background in sales, so it made sense with both of our passions to invest in a franchise such as BrightStar Care.”

“My wife and I have a passion for helping those in need,” Perez said. “After experiencing first-hand the physical and emotional toll family caregivers experience while providing care, we decided to open a BrightStar Care location to use our experience to help others who are struggling with finding care for their loved ones. We felt it was important for us to provide local families with reassurance that their loved ones are in good hands during a time of need.”

Perez calls their investment a success, crediting BrightStar Care’s leadership for their guidance and referring to his staff as both professional and compassionate. He also appreciates the company’s dedication to veterans.

“We work regularly with the local veterans office to provide guidance regarding in-home care,” he said.

For more information about the BrightStar Care franchise, visit brightstarfranchising.com.

– Jessica Jones