Voice of a Caregiver - Monica Carothers, CNA
Voice of a Caregiver project is designed to highlight the experiences of caregivers. In Voice of a Caregiver direct support professionals, tell of the joys and difficulties they experience in their everyday work, Each story evolves out of a series of in depth interviews and is told in the worker's voice.
Monica Carothers, CNA
Grande Prairie Health and Rehab
Hi, my name is Monica Carothers and I have been a certified nursing assistant (CNA) for about ten years. I have two children and they are the most beautiful things that happened in my life. I have been working at Grande Prairie Health and Rehab for about two years and was just promoted to a peer mentor position. It is a great place to work.
I became a caregiver after working in factories for two years. Because I was a teenage mother, this work was not enough to provide for my children and also meet my personal needs. My family and my children made me realize that I really wanted to help people, so I entered Lincoln Lutherans’ nursing assistant program. I completed the course and was certified, working one year for them in return for my training.
The most rewarding aspect of my job is not only becoming a professional caregiver but knowing I can make the nursing home’s residents feel safe and loved. I enjoy caring for people who need help and assuring them that they can count on me.
Knowing the residents appreciate the care I provide them is what keeps me going. They can trust in me at this time in their life, they know they are in a good environment and in reliable hands. I am a respectful person and I treat others as I would want to be treated. I am also a kind, caring and happy individual. I have a great job and I feel good about my work. Now I don’t mind being away from my family because I know I’m doing something worthwhile and my work allows me to take care of my family and myself.
I am confident that the community also feels good about my work as a caregiver. Because of professional direct caregivers, millions of people and their families can trust that they have made the right decision of placing their loved ones in our care. This becomes evident to me at special moments when residents say, “I will miss you” or “I could not have done it without you” or “Wish I could take you home with me.” These are the moments when I know I have become a successful caregiver. I have satisfied the needs of those in my care in every way that I could.
Monica is so compassionate and courteous not only to the residents of Grande Prairie, but to everyone she comes in contact with. I know she has struggled to get to where she is now and I have no doubt that her drive will take her to much greater endeavors. I hope that I am able to witness a portion of that.
- Stacey Glidden, Monica’s supervisor.
