Centenary College

Jersey-girl relocated to beautiful North Carolina and loving it, with my Air Force Vet Husband & 6-year old son. Lifelong artist, trained fashion & graphic designer + seamstress. A colorful personality visible across the Triangle area, while representing my art/fashion brand LMA Designs, on a mission to make self-expression & creativity more accessible to all as a means of genuine self-care through art and design. I strive to use my skills to help others, to learn while solving problems, with enthusiasm, optimism, empathy, & most importantly, to preserve the dignity of others. In my life experiences & those in the work-place (no matter where that may be) have shown me how important it is at all stages of life & health to have human connection--real human help and compassion--guiding my main goals and philosophy in caregiving and companionship. My job is not over until I have made someone's day a little brighter, more colorful, and more hopeful.

It's always been desire to care for elderly and special needs adults. I'm patient and understanding to needs of my clients. I always go above and beyond for needs of my clients and their happiness and safety is my very day goal.

I began working for private in home care after taking care of my terminally ill husband and during this time I went back to college majoring in Health Care Administration/medical records graduating with an Associates of Science degree. After graduating I decided I preferred doing hands on care and working directly with clients for 3 ½ years in which I was a HHA/PCA. During this time I began training for my C.N.A. through the American Red Cross and obtained my license. I have worked for several agencies where I have had the opportunity to work in nursing homes/ rehabilitation centers, assisted living/retirement homes and private care. . During this time I have worked at many different facilities where I have the opportunity to work with many patients with various problems. I am confident with my passion and skills and I would be a good candidate taking care of those that are in need of CNA/PCA/HHA care utilizing my skills: Vital signs Patient charting Patient care/safety ADL’s ~ activities of daily living Medication reminding Patient care rights/HIPPA Housekeeping Cooking according to nutrient guideline Medical transporting

My first experience as a caregiver was working in a group home for individuals who have developmental disabilities. I worked in two different group home settings. One home was all male and the other was primarily female. I gained experience working with clients in wheelchairs; who had dementia, seizures, ostomy bags, 02 machines, CPAP machines; who needed ADL assistance, feeding assistance, bed pan usage, etc. I enjoyed my work because it didn't feel like I was working. In between doing the tasks that were needed of me, I enjoyed my client's company and engaged them in activities to help enrich their lives. When I moved to St. Louis I worked as a Home Health Aid and worked with clients who had Parkinson's Disease, Alzheimer's, in hospice, multiple sclerosis, etc. I worked in client's homes and sometimes alongside other caregivers to help provide the best care possible. I am currently Adult CPR and First Aid certified, I was a certified Med tech in both NJ and MO state so I have some knowledge of medications. I hold a BA in Psychology and am trained in behavioral management techniques. I just like giving back. I used to work retail, but never enjoyed my jobs because I never felt like they were jobs that really made a difference. I got my degree in Psychology in hopes to work with people who need someone to be there for them. I enjoy knowing that I can put a smile on someone's face.

I am kind, caring, loving, understanding, responsible, accountable, and compassionate to the needs of client and family. I cared for my mother who passed to cancer and my friend who passed to MS. I have a servants heart and willingness to continue my education. One must be patient and understanding of client to provide the best care and comfort.