Our Health Journey

Tanesha Owens MSN, ACNP-BC, BCPA, a compassionate advocate for quality healthcare, embodies the essence of nursing and caring. With over two decades of clinical experience, she fearlessly takes on challenging roles, leaving a lasting impact on those she serves. As the CEO of Health Advocates of New Jersey, she champions the cause of ensuring that every patient has an advocate and resource, leading to higher quality care and improved clinical outcomes.

Her expertise has been honed at prestigious healthcare institutions such as Saint Peter’s University Hospital, Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, and Princeton Medical Center. In 2017, Tanesha faced an unexpected health crisis when she was diagnosed with a rare neurological disorder that left her paraplegic and blind. Despite her extensive healthcare knowledge and a supportive network of friends and family, she grappled with feelings of isolation and fear of the unknown. Advocating for herself became a challenge due to the nature of her illness.

This profound experience drove Tanesha to ensure that no one should face medical uncertainties alone or navigate a complex health system without ongoing support. With determination, intensive therapy, and the grace of God, she regained her vision and the ability to walk once more. Her journey exemplifies resilience and compassion, inspiring others to persevere.

Tanesha Owens holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from Seton Hall University and a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) from Rutgers University. She is a Registered Professional Nurse and an Acute Care Advanced Practice Nurse, accredited by the State of New Jersey Board of Nursing.

Beyond her professional achievements, Tanesha is an active member of her church, Calvary Chapel Crossfields in Jamesburg, NJ. Her strong faith is evident in her commitment to her family, as she is a loving wife, mother, and grandmother.

Tanesha Owens, a board-certified Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, and board-certified Patient Advocate, has dedicated over two decades to caring for others. Her passion for nursing led her to advocate tirelessly for her patients and their families, delivering exceptional care.

In 2017, Tanesha faced an unexpected health crisis when she was diagnosed with a rare neurological disorder that left her paraplegic and blind. Despite her extensive healthcare knowledge and a supportive network of friends and family, she grappled with feelings of isolation and fear of the unknown. Advocating for herself became a challenge due to the nature of her illness.

This profound experience drove Tanesha to ensure that no one should face medical uncertainties alone or navigate a complex health system without ongoing support. With determination, intensive therapy, and the grace of God, she regained her vision and the ability to walk once more. Her journey exemplifies resilience and compassion, inspiring others to persevere even in the face of adversity.

Tanesha’s husband is a remarkable four-time cancer survivor. Throughout his journey, Tanesha stood by his side as a fierce advocate, collaborating closely with his team of clinicians. Her unwavering commitment ensured that he received the finest care, where his voice was not only heard, but actively included in the decision-making process. This comprehensive approach prioritized both his emotional well-being and physical needs.

The COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 instilled a great deal of fear in our communities, healthcare providers, and hospitals. Tanesha found herself advocating for her family, friends, and colleagues more than ever before. She began by lending a listening ear and providing moral support. Her role soon expanded to phone consultations, where she helped people understand their health and treatment options, collaborating with their care providers, and advising them on when to seek medical attention. Tanesha realized that having a patient advocate was crucial and made a positive impact on the mental and physical health of those she assisted.

Tanesha, drawing from her own personal journey of navigating a sudden acute illness and now living with a chronic health condition, possesses a deep understanding of the day-to-day challenges her clients’ encounters. She recognizes the significance of having a compassionate and knowledgeable advocate by their side, fighting on their behalf. Tanesha’s unwavering commitment to effecting positive change in healthcare stems from her faith and her sense of calling from God.

John 13:14-15 says “and since I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.”