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How one father's providential purpose helped shape his son’s path

Published Date
Author Providence Oregon News Team

June 2026

At Providence Medford Medical Center, care is more than a job — it’s a calling that can change lives. For environmental services supervisor Shawn Fitzsimmons, that calling has brought purpose, stability and a sense of belonging for his entire family.

“This place gave me purpose and a chance,” he says. “This job saved me. We talk about it all the time.”

A place to grow and belong

For 15 years, Shawn and his wife, Manuela, who also works in environmental services, have shared about their experiences at Providence Medford and what it means to serve the Mission.

Over the years, their stories of service, compassion and purpose helped inspire their son, Griffin, to find his own path at Providence.

Now, Griffin is two years into his own Providence journey.

“I really like it here,” Griffin says. “The people are nice and kind. They treat me fairly.”

Leading by example

For Griffin, the example his father set made a lasting impression.

“It’s all about helping people and the doing the right thing. [My dad] has always been confident and consistent and good at helping people and doing his job. I want to be that example as well. I want to come here and help these people the best I can,” Griffin says.

Shawn sees those values coming to life in his son’s work.

“He’s all those things. He picked up a lot that I try to bring out – integrity and compassion. I’ve always been proud of him,” Shawn says.

A family connection to care

The bond between father and son is unmistakable, both at home and at work.

“Those two have a strong bond. They’ve always been that way,” Manuela says.

Together, the Fitzsimmons family brings a shared commitment to creating a welcoming, supportive environment for every person they encounter. Their story reflects how meaningful work — and a culture of care — can extend far beyond the workplace and into the lives of our families.

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