Eternal Life Services: Redefining Home Health Care with Compassion and Integrity

When Nelson Ferrod co-founded Eternal Life Services, a home health care agency, in 2019, his vision was deeply personal. Inspired by the experiences of his mother, a home health aide who often faced poor treatment and undervalued efforts in the industry, Nelson, his brother Gustavo Rodriguez, and his wife Vanessa Ferrod set out to create something better. Today, Eternal Life Services has grown from a family-run operation to a thriving business with over 15 employees, 400 contractors, and a mission to change the way home health care is delivered across Florida.

What began as a small team operating during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic has since evolved into a company serving hundreds of clients in Miami-Dade County, with plans to expand into Broward County and skilled Medicare services in 2024. This growth is fueled by the Ferrod family’s dedication to their team, patients, and the belief that everyone deserves dignity and respect.

At the heart of Eternal Life Services’ success is its strong company culture. Nelson credits the company’s growth to its core values of integrity, hard work, and mutual respect. “We don’t tolerate laziness or dishonesty. Those are two things that can destroy a team,” he explained. By setting clear standards from the outset and investing in employee training, the company has cultivated a culture of accountability and productivity. Eternal Life Services stands out in the industry by offering quarterly training programs for its home health aides. “When we started, only a handful of people attended the trainings. Today, we have over 300 people show up,” Nelson said. The emphasis on continuous education has not only enhanced the quality of care provided but also fostered a sense of professional pride among their contractors.

Nelson’s path to entrepreneurship was shaped by his previous career as a police officer. “Being a police officer taught me discipline, perspective, and the value of routine,” he shared. Those lessons have translated into his leadership style, helping him navigate the challenges of building a business. “You learn how to stay calm under pressure and find solutions, which is invaluable in business,” he added. Though leaving law enforcement in 2022 was bittersweet, Nelson transitioned fully into running Eternal Life Services, bringing with him the same sense of duty and integrity he cultivated on the force.

A Commitment to Community

Eternal Life Services goes beyond just providing care—it’s a company rooted in giving back. From working with the Miami Rescue Mission to supporting Ronald McDonald House Charities and local initiatives in Colombia, the Ferrod family has made philanthropy a cornerstone of their business. They even dedicate April as “ELS Giving Back Month,” organizing events that involve their team and clients in meaningful community contributions. This commitment to community extends to their team. The Ferrods recently added a kitchen to their office, offering employees healthy meals free of charge as part of their focus on wellness and morale. “It’s the little things that make a difference,” said Nelson. “When your team feels valued, they go the extra mile.”

Operating in Florida has been instrumental to Eternal Life Services’ rapid expansion. With its pro-business environment, low taxes, and aging population, the state offers a supportive landscape for companies like Eternal Life Services to thrive. “Florida is very pro-business, and that makes a big difference,” Nelson noted. “It allows us to grow faster and serve more people.”

As Eternal Life Services expands into new markets and continues to innovate, the Ferrod family remains steadfast in their mission: to provide high-quality care that prioritizes dignity and respect. With plans to grow their revenue and double their impact in the coming years, Eternal Life Services is poised to lead a transformative shift in home health care.

Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

Being named a 2024 GrowFL Florida Companies to Watch honoree is a significant milestone for Eternal Life Services. “This recognition isn’t just for me—it’s for our entire team,” Nelson shared. “It shows that all the hard work, the long hours, and the sacrifices are paying off.” Nelson extended his gratitude to his wife Vanessa, his brother Gustavo, and the entire team for their dedication and resilience. “I may be the face of the company, but it’s our team that has built this success,” he said. He also praised GrowFL for creating opportunities for small businesses to network and collaborate, saying, “Their support has been invaluable.”