I completed my training as a Certified Nursing Assistant at the age of 16.  I worked at an Assisted Living in North Carolina and then enlisted in the United States Army and served as a Combat Medic (not during a time of conflict). I have worked in Assisted Living for over 25 years and completed training with leading experts such as David Troxel as a Best Friends ™ Trainer and Teepa Snow Positive Approach to Care ™ Trainer in Dementia Care.

“Throughout our lifetimes, we go through experiences that are unique to us. Some of those experiences can be challenging, and others rewarding.  What makes the experience worth enduring is the ability to pull a lesson from it and share it with someone else who is going through something similar. Our shared experiences build community and togetherness. The residents’ courage to share their life experiences has provided me comfort through my own challenging time.  I know the comfort their words brought me, and I seek to provide the same thing to others.”

“I think the best part of aging is the wisdom you learn along the way. Being in a place where you can be at peace with who you are, and all the beautiful mistakes made along the way, is powerful.”