By Swan By Grace

What is your name and your profession?

My name is Kristen, and I work as a caregiver for
Comfort Keepers, a company that provides in-home
care for the elderly, so they may stay independent.
http://www.comfortkeepers.com

What made you choose this line of work?

I had moved to my current location in Montana to be
close to my mom, and care for her, as she was ailing.
Little did I know she was dying, and with the blink of
an eye she was gone.  From then on I decided I wanted
to help care for others who aren't able to fully take
care of themselves.

Has it been a long life dream?

No, it was a sudden decision, but its worked out for
the best.  I've learned a lot in this profession.

Do you find any satisfaction in what you do?

A lot, as long as I see the changes its making in my
clients lives.  When I don't, its a little painful,
but sometimes you'll just never know how much you've
helped a person.

What kind of benefits do you receive?

I am able to help people in ways they can not help
themselves, and their smiles, and kind comments have
made me feel good about what I do.

Are there downfalls with this job?

Yes, if working with a very ill client, its very hard
on the heart of a caregiver.  Its also an unimaginable
nightmare to lose a client. 

Is it a career or just a job?

Its both.  It depends on who you are working with.
Some people don't appreciate you at all, but then
there are those who appreciate you so very much.  It
also depends on how dedicated you are to the client,
and their needs.  For me, its a career, but from time
to time.. it seems a job, because I feel such pressure
to get through each day sometimes.

Is there a historical figure that you admire in
your profession?

None that come to mind, but I admire all who've been
caregivers.  Its a hard job, but someone's got to do
it, who will if we won't?

Where do you draw support from to remain where you
are in your career?

My husband, and my online support group that I've
created on yahoo groups.

Could you share a special anecdote about you profession?

I'm not sure if you mean a tip, or a story, so I'll give both.
Tip: Be aware of stroke, and heart attack signs so
that you can call 911 if things seem unusual with your client.
Story:  Hmm.. no story actually comes to mind.  The
days are often the same, and nothing new arises.  From
time to time, they do, but nothing of much interest,
or anything funny.

What are you responsibilities?

Light housekeeping, food preparation, grocery shopping, transportation,
companionship, assisting in bed, out of bed, in the
bathroom, shower, bath, help walking, etc.  I help
with anything that is requested of me.

Did you receive special education for profession?   Where?

Unfortunately, no.  I believe I should have been
through at least a few classes of some form, but I
wasn't.  If I were to run my own company like this
one, I would have a training session which includes
CPR and First Aid certification.

How long have you been doing this line of work and how has it changed
since you've been with it?

Been doing this for over a year now, and a lot has
changed about me.  I've learned a lot about life, and
a lot about myself.  My patience has grown as well.

  What are you goals in your career?

I'd actually like to move on to Health and Wellness
for animals.  They are what I love above all, and I
desire to help their healing with Canine Massage.  I
am currently a student of canine massage therapy.

Thank you, Kristen for letting in on a piece of your life.

Graphics are by Swan