Rose D.

My first job, at age 10, was summer companion to my maternal grandmother. Working for the family matriarch required abundant labor (my grandmother was elderly), but the daily chores gave rise to an unexpected pleasure; I liked being responsible. For 12 lovely summers, I cleared the acorns from her croquet court, hiked to the store to buy her groceries, and delivered her (she did not drive) by rowboat to tea at the homes of neighbors. Within the formality of her cottage, I learned to be a responsible member of a household. And whether I felt like it or not, I learned to be good company. Still under my grandmother's spell, I have worked as a lady's companion and as a gentleman's secretary for more than 20 years. Although I am no longer gathering acorns, I accompany my employers on their travels, keep them company at cultural events, edit their memoirs, and teach them them how to draw and paint. I have found these employments to be congenial and remunerative. They give me great pleasure.

My grandfather became the driving force behind my desire to be a caregiver. As my grandfather "Pa" got older he become less able to care for himself and his home (which he built his with his own two hands!!!. This was extremely difficult for him, he was the most prideful man I knew-and strong like an ox! Realizing he couldn't care for the house and himself on his own, I stepped in as primary caregiver. It was painful to see my Pa's pride so hurt but ever since then I want to help anyone stay in their own home. I can't stand the thought of seniors being unable to stay in their homes, or unable to provide for themselves, or just being alone and lonely. I learned from my Pa what pride and hard work is, once he lost this, it broke my heart. Today, I find caregiving to be the most gratifying thing in my life. One personal achievement is that when my grandfather was forced to go to a hospital, rehab, or nursing home, he instantly begged me to bring him home- I always did and I think that meant the world to him. I am a very nurturing, loving, generous person. My best quality as a caregiver is my intuition, I can sense just what someone needs (usually). This quality helps me to make people comfortable, safe, and happy. Even the most timid, or independent people, I have befriended and earned their acceptance. I seem to mold to people, which is very helpful.