Lashanta T.

I am 24 years old learning how health is important and how we as CNA's can make a difference to patients and loved ones by providing a sense of security to those who may be going through a difficult time. I'm a new CNA, and I'm also a mother and someone's daughter which means that my way of providing care has come naturally. I also care for those who are the most important to me and treat them with love and respect. Soon I'll be working as a CNA and I have pledged to provide care, equality and love in the way which I would want my grandparents to be cared for. For example, being listened to, given warm culture meals and also not feeling like they're alone. I would never want an old human being to feel like no one is listening to them and I also would never want an old person to feel like no one loves them. Thank you for your time, if you have any questions or concerns please feel free to contact me. Sincerely, Rose Helen Velasco

I decided to become a caregiver after recovering from a horrible accident when I was 20 years old. I received very poor care in a CA county hospital when I was hit and run over on my bicycle. I was discharged after two weeks and hadn't yet been treated for third degree burns. If it hadn't been for The ICU nurse, I wouldn't have survived. I do remember my interactions with her and one other nurse. I believe that they inspired me to want to do the same for others. Also, My older brother was developmentally challenged. I cared for him as a child and even helped him get his high school diploma and drivers license. I tutored him in english. I also gave care to my mother when she developed ovarian cancer. In the year 2000 I became a caregiver for the state operated group homes in AZ. I went on to work for Helping Hands,(also in AZ), and then became a certified nursing assistant through a Kindred facility in Sedona, AZ. Shortly after I was offered a position as an RNA after completing the course and passing my skills test. I am now partially retired and continue to work part time as a caregiver.