Erica R.

When my mother was ill, I was the one she would call to make her scrambled eggs. I took her to the swimming pool and hot tub to get exercise and relaxation. I cut her hair, took her to doctor's appointments and then lunch, and generally gave her some companionship. As I dusted her knickknacks, she told me where each was from. Mom died in 2002. When dad was ailing, some of my family tried to move him into assisted living, but he wanted to stay in his own home. I gave up my apartment and moved in with him, while working in publishing during the day. We had a great time together for a year and a half. Just after he died, I lost my job because I had spent too much time with dad. That evening, the daughter of a neighbor I'd assisted over the years called me, asking if I could help her mother. That began years of caregiving in which I have helped people stay in their homes, and enjoy life. I've brought my keyboard and played hymns and popular songs, singing with them and laughing. As a caregiver, I am simply happy to help my people stay in their own familiar setting. I believe the way I interact with them makes them happy. And my cooking makes them extremely happy! I built my cooking experience on my mom's, then learned to cook for fewer than 8 people! I edited three "Taste of the Country" cookbooks, working with a professional dietician who taught me many ways to fit dietary needs while providing tasty food.

Through personal experience with both my grandmothers, we found it difficult to find good quality and reliable care. Starting in High school I took a medical terminology course , and from there my interest in the medical field grew. I took the CNA course through Blackhawk Technical College in Janesville and LOVED IT! I opted to take the additional Advance Nursing Assistant course. I have worked in many different environment such as nursing homes, hospital and Home Health. After 3 years I decided to open my own business become licensed and insured to provide Care for others in their Home and it's been the Best discission of my life!!