I have often thought about making a difference in the lives of our Senior community as a career. One evening, I was talking with my neighbor/friend who is a caregiver for Home Instead. She told me I could be a companion and my thoughts became a reality. I was so excited when I got my first client because it just so happened, she lived in my subdivision.
My current client's care changed a little over a year ago, so my responsibilities changed from companionship to including personal care, learning as I go. I am so grateful for this new opportunity.
Being a caregiver, one of my favorite things are the relationships that develop from sharing stories, the joy and laughter each day, and meeting the client's family and friends.
Another favorite is when the client and their family can be at ease knowing their loved one is receiving the care they are hoping for, and their home is being well taken care of.
My most favorite thing would be the wonderful and heartwarming memories that I have made with the clients that I will cherish forever.
I got to know some of my client's friends when I would take her to their first Friday of the month luncheons.
In April of 2022, my client emailed her friends the night before my 60th birthday and planned a surprise party for me. It was very thoughtful, and I truly was surprised.
The following year in February was my client's birthday so with the help of one of her friends, we planned a surprise party for her. Her friend told her that she was coming for a visit that day. I picked up her favorite sandwiches from Jimmy John's, her friend picked up her favorite cakes from Nothing Bundt Cakes and everyone else brought some goodies too.
Just before everyone arrived my client received a phone call. I snuck out into the hallway as everyone was arriving and we waited for her to get off the phone. It seemed like one of the longest conversations ever. As soon as she hung up the phone, we all came in together and surprised her. She was so surprised and so happy to see everyone. It was a fun day. It was so nice to see her so happy. She was talking about it for quite some time. 
Becoming a caregiver was one of the best decisions and biggest blessings in "my" life.