Today we’d like to introduce you to LIsa Nickel.
Hi LIsa, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
A Life of Faith, Family, and Service: Lisa’s Journey of Strength and Compassion
Born in New York, raised in Oklahoma, and now a proud Floridian for the past 12 years, Lisa has built her life around faith, family, and service. She is the devoted mother of two boys — Jared, 24, and Jacob, who will forever be 19 in her heart after his tragic passing in a car accident 13 years ago. Her own journey through loss has inspired a deep passion for helping others navigate life’s most difficult moments.
As a Family Service Counselor at Wells Memorial & Event Center, a Dignity Memorial provider, Lisa compassionately walks alongside families during times of loss. She also helps individuals plan their pre-need arrangements, ensuring that their loved ones are spared the emotional and financial stress of making difficult decisions later. Through her work, Lisa provides comfort, understanding, and peace of mind to every family she serves.
Motivated by her own experience, Lisa founded Jacob’s P.A.T.H., a support group for parents and grandparents coping with the loss of a child or grandchild. She is also a certified Master Grief Coach, allowing her to further support those in need of healing and hope.
Lisa’s servant heart extends far beyond her professional life. She is active in her church, The Crossing, and serves as Membership Chair for the Plant City Lions Club. She is also an Ambassador for the Florida Strawberry Festival, a member of Plant City Women Supporting Women and Better Living for Seniors, helped establish Angels Connect of Plant City, and serves on the board of directors for The Angel Foundation FL.
Six years ago, Lisa became a right below-the-knee amputee (RBKA) and now proudly wears a sparkly prosthetic leg. She also developed Charcot foot in her other leg, which requires her to wear a CROW boot — also decorated with sparkles, a reflection of her bright spirit. More recently, she was diagnosed with diabetic macular edema (DME), which has affected her vision in her right eye. She now receives monthly injections to help slow progression.
Through every challenge, Lisa’s faith remains her anchor. She believes that no matter how hard life gets, things can always be worse — and there is always hope. Her strength, compassion, and unwavering belief in God continue to guide her as she serves others with grace and love.
When she’s not volunteering or helping families, Lisa enjoys spending time at the beach, going to concerts, relaxing by the pool, and sharing laughter with friends.
“Life hasn’t always been easy, but I’ve learned that faith can carry you through anything. If my story can bring even a little comfort or hope to someone else, then every struggle has been worth it.” — Lisa
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Absolutely not. Losing a child is the absolute worse thing ever. I wouldn’t wish this pain upon my worst enemy.
Losing a leg has also made things challenging. But it doesn’t define me. The only thing I’m doing is running (not that I did it before), but if you see me running you better run too because somethings probably chasing me.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a Family Service Counselor.
I described it in the precious question with my bio. 🙂
I’m also involved with the Norman McLeod American Legion Post 26 in Plant City. On behalf of Dignity Memorial we present a Veteran of the Month. We also have a table set up at the Funeral Home that displays their picture and people can write them thank you notes.
Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
First and foremost GOD. My son Jared has been my rock since the death of his brother. I am so blessed to have so many friends that have helped me along in this journey.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.wellsmemorial.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lisa.a.nickel
