Debra A.

I became a caregiver because of a family member who became very ill. I became his caretaker and enjoyed taking care of him even though it was a difficult time for me. He was very comfortable with the care that was provided and it was something I knew I wanted to do from that time on. What I like most about being a Caregiver is I like to see that a patient/client is being well cared for and that I am making that happen for them. I like to see the satisfaction on their faces knowing I have done a job well done. A personal achievement I am proud of is that every patient/client that I have worked with, providing care for, was very pleased with my work and they have expressed it with words of appreciation themselves and with my supervisors. I am a person who takes my job seriously and I like to be proficient in my work. I have been in the Healthcare field for 15 plus years and am very skilled in it. I like to get the job done right the first time. I can also be humorous with the patient/client when it is appropriate to make their day a little brighter. I really enjoy working with them.

I have been a Caregiver in a variety of situations for 7+ years and each family I worked for called me a "member of the family"! What makes me a great caregiver? I'm extremely attentive, patient, have a calming effect on people, am trustworthy, an excellent listener and willing to work with each individual's specific needs. I became a caregiver when my father was recovering from lung cancer & had knee surgery. He required extensive care regarding mobility, physical therapy, meal planning/nutrition, prescription management, & hygiene. Additionally, he needed to know that someone really cared about him & the progress he was making. I am a very positive person with an optimistic outlook on life! I believe this is instrumental is helping one recover from any condition, physically, mentally or emotionally. I had an extensive career as a Director in Human Resources in my corporate career, where many of my transferable skills are utilized in providing care for individuals. I'm passionate about working with seniors, as I have been all of my life. I have a heart for those who need care, may be lonely, or are in transition from home or family. I love seeing changes in the lives of others when I attend to them with their very specific needs. I'm adaptable, easy to talk to & get people talking, so they begin to feel a connection with others, rather than isolated or alone. I've provided care to my grandfather, whose life was transitioning painfully with bone cancer. One of my greatest achievements was to see his pain managed not only through medication, but listening to him recall his life's stories, reading to him his favorite, National Geographic, & providing him with all the personal touches that alleviated the inevitable suffering that comes with this type of cancer. I am certified in CPR, First Aid, AED, and BLS. I will care for your loved one just as I would one of my own parents, with understanding, being present and available for whatever they need.