Pamela S.

I have enjoyed this being able to assist others, it started at an early age being that I was the youngest child of four. My siblings had families of their own and it was expected of me to be the babysitter. It is was a joy being in the company of my grandmother who took care of my siblings and I, while our Parents went to work. I learned so much from my Grandmother; patiences, grace, love, etc. We had good communication skills with each other; whether it was verbal or non-verbal. One day after I relocated to North Carolina, a friend and Supervisor needed assistance with caring for her aging grandmother who was diagnosed with Alzheimer's. I started helping out in the begining of her illness until the end of her life... I have been been working with Aging Adults since 1997, and I am still finding favor in this field of helping others. I continued to work with agencies that provided 24/7 care for aging adults. I was added to Care Teams and experienced growth from a Caregiver, to being promoted as an Office Assistance, to eventually a Care Manager at one time. I always found this type of work to be enjoying, comforting, at times very challenging but special; and not everyone has this gift. When one does recognize it.. then it's good to share it with others. It's rewarding for the clients and the caregivers as we grow together in knowledge, love and experience.

I became a caregiver 7 years ago at the age of 16. My mother is a registered nurse and encouraged me to start in health care. I have always had the heart and compassion to help others in need especially those who were no longer able to help themselves. I keep residents smiling, uplifted, encouraged, and try to maintain as much independence as possible all while providing a service and becoming a friend. The relationship I have with most of my residents and families are one of instant familiarity and as if I'm part of the family. I have traveled the world almost and witnessed how others lived. I always try to give back to the people who appear to be in need. Although there are times i may need something's if someone seems to need it more than me I reach out an extended hand, shoulder, food, or even as simple as a smile, anything I can. I have worked in healthcare ever since I could be employed. Helping others is my life , i don't know any other way to put it. I take pride and joy and peace in my heart knowing that I am doing what god called me to do.