Member Spotlight
As Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan celebrates 50 years of coverage for Michigan public school retirees, we are shining a light on an essential part of this journey — our members.
Staying connected and staying active
Yvette had recently returned from West Africa when the Blue Cross team met her. The busy Michigan public school retiree and her sister Cheralyn chaperoned 22 high school students on a trip to Ghana earlier this year. For nearly two weeks, Yvette and the other travelers immersed themselves in Ghanaian history and culture.
The group participated in a traditional naming ceremony and visited the haunting slave dungeons at Cape Coast Castle. They also explored Jamestown, the Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum and the W.E.B. DuBois Museum. Yvette and her sister made sure the American students got to work with Ghanaian students in their classrooms as well.
"They had an awesome time," Yvette shared. "The children also experienced poverty and gained an appreciation for what they have back home."
Tech-savvy and connected
Yvette is a Medicare Advantage member who joined the retirement system's Blue Cross plan in 2011. Before retiring, she held many roles, including special education teacher, school principal and trainer for special needs teachers in Michigan and out of state. Leveraging her master’s degree in instructional technology, Yvette also trained teachers on using technology in their classes.
Still a tech enthusiast, Yvette is an avid user of Blue Cross’ online tools. "I’m well-connected," she said, adding that her Blue Cross online member account is the first place she checks for answers about her medical plan. She receives her EOB notifications through text messages and she logs in to locate gyms and Blue365 member discounts.
Community, culture and wellness
Staying connected socially and making a difference in her community are high on Yvette’s list. Thanks to her love of theater and the arts, she attends a variety of cultural events. She’s active in her church and sorority from planting trees with Greening of Detroit to food distribution to sponsoring local girls to go to summer camp.
Yvette also prioritizes wellness by making the most of her Blue Cross coverage. "I make sure to get my annual exams and I try to stay in the gym." Using her SilverSneakers® benefit, she takes Pilates and other classes. And as a caregiver for her 94-year-old mom, Yvette appreciates the flexibility of SilverSneakers classes online.
"I’m grateful for the coverage I have," Yvette said. She acknowledges that her Blue Cross plan provides a sense of security for her in retirement. As Yvette ponders her next travel destination, Blue Cross has her covered out of state or out of the country. "I’m so happy to have insurance that will afford me the opportunity to go and not worry."