Dutchess Community College

I became a caregiver because I care about people and believe everyone deserves to be treated with respect. My mom and step father both have been sick and I was very upset with the level of care provided to them and decided I wanted to make a difference, even if a small one. I'm very proud of switching careers from mortgage banking to CNA which was a big step for me and I plan on finishing my degree to become a nurse.

The role changes as the patient's needs change during and after treatment, I have an important role as part of the healing/rehabilitation process to the patient/client. To see someone move from being disable, or from being helpless to uplifting, mobile, cheerful, healing, smiling with anticipation lets me know the service I am giving is giving back life to someone who may have lost hope. Having earned 5 Awards from NASA for Team Achievements. I have the drive of becoming a high achiever, I am driven by a personal drive to excel, rather than motivated by outward glory. I have worked in the Healthcare Industry for 20 years, trained, skilled and experienced.

My approach as a caregiver is having an understanding that the people and their families that I am helping are just that: people. They have feelings and emotions and want to be treated as people not as patients. They have life and vitality and a history and a future. All of these things that make them people are to be respected. It is my intent to minimize the limitations that may be a product of age and allow them to continue their lives individually and with their families as much as is possible. I enjoy meeting people and learning about their lives and what drives them. This is a career I have always been passionate about because it has made me a better person and has never felt like a job. I learn something new everyday and it is rewarding. I am proud of the life I have made for myself and the family and home I have.

I am a retired RN looking to use my innate empathy and compassion to care for elderly patients in home with activities of daily living and housekeeping duties. I recently retired and was certified in psychiatry and not only have worked with elderly professionally, my Grandmother lived to over 101 years of age. Since my retirement of my professional license I have had opportunity to work part time with an amazing woman over 101 years of age. I have a strong work ethic and while no longer able to work in hospital setting, I enjoy using my skills to learn about a person and apply my skills to what they need and want to care for, and help them live and enjoy life fully.