Jessica L.

At the very young age of eight years old, my grandfather was diagnosed with colon cancer. Unfortunately enough, the cancer spread throughout various parts of his body and he died very uncomfortably just 5 months later. Throughout the various hospital trips and treatments, I was always present. Nurses often joked and were surprised by the little girl who slept in the hospital bed with her dying grandfather for five months. My mom said she recalls me having a lack of concern for my own well being, and a great concern for helping my grandfather. I was applauded daily by doctors, nurses, caregivers, and friends for my care, compassion, and understanding at such a young age. Each day I saw new caregivers and nurses do their best, always smiling, to make my grandfather's passing as comfortable as possible. The day I watched my grandfather take his last breath, and as I watched the nurses and caregivers shed tears over a man they hardly knew, it occurred to me that I knew exactly what I wanted to do in life. I want to make a difference in the lives of sick patients and their families. I want to improve the quality of life for as many people as I possibly can while here on earth. There is no better feeling in this world than knowing you've made a difference in someone's life. That is why I chose to become a caregiver.