2021 CAREGiver of the Year- Elizabeth
Congratulations, Elizabeth, for being our Caregiver of the Year 2021!! Elizabeth is an exceptional caregiver and a delight to have in our team! Her skill, years of experience and personal wisdom shine through in the compassion and diligence with which she cares for all her clients. Her efforts create rich experiences for her clients and are instrumental in the enhancement of their health and wellbeing.
Where were you born? Where did you grow up?
I was born and raised in the Philippines.
How long have you worked at Home Instead?
I have been working at Home Instead since Jan 2020.
What’s your favorite part of caregiving?
Every client that I get to help and get to know at a deeper level, is my reward. That is why I love caregiving. I have shared and continue to share so many stories with all the different people I have cared for.
A client I assisted for a long time was 99 years old and lived with his wife who had dementia. They always gave each other good night and good morning kisses to end and start each day. One day, the wife got upset wanted 'some fresh air'. The husband and I thought we should get her some flowers to cheer her up, even though we didn't know what she was upset about. So, I went and got the flowers. When she saw the bouquet, she gave out such a big smile! He gave her the flowers, kissed and hugged her, and told her that he loved her. My heart melted! I thought it would be nice to have someone special to hold and kiss me too. It made me so happy to see a nearly 100-year-old couple kiss and hug so much after being married for so long.
Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I was born and raised in the Philippines and am the eldest among five children. I turn 61 this year and looking back I would say that I’ve had to cross many hurdles. My schooling and university education were all done in my home country. Following university, I worked at a government agency in the Philippines.
I arrived in Canada in 1991, and I gained experience working as a Nursing Aid. I was employed at a nursing home until 1997 when I had to take a break after my daughter was born. I then worked at the Royal Columbian Hospital as a Lead Hand from 2014 to 2019.
When I started working with Home Instead in early 2020, it felt like I found my true calling. I genuinely enjoy working with my clients and they have become like family to me. I felt like I have found the right employer. They have lifted my spirits during some tough times. The Home Instead team has genuine appreciation towards their employees and treats them with respect and dignity. It is a pleasure to be a part of such a dedicated and a loyal team!!
