National CNA Week

When people hear the words CNA some may assume “the bottom of the pyramid.” As I write this I laugh because in some ways it’s true what some people may think or say, however. it’s so much more than that. The fact is, you need a strong foundation to build something that lasts, and CNA’s are the foundation of quality care. If it weren’t for CNA’s, convalescent homes, hospices, and even hospitals would have a hard time existing. I’ve been asked, “Why do you like being a CNA?” multiple times throughout my career. There’s even been times where I’ve had to defend myself for being a CNA.

    CNA week is observed every June, it is a time when nursing assistants are acknowledged and recognized for their vital role in health care. I’ve been a CNA for 7 years now and I can honestly say it’s been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made in my life. As a child and in my teenage years, I grew up alone. I had no aunts, uncles, cousins, or grandparents. People will always share their stories and describe how a grandparent’s love is one of the best feelings there is. For many years, I wondered if that was true. Being a CNA, you meet so many people with different backgrounds, different languages, different cultures and beliefs. At nursing school, they would always tell us “never get attached to your patients.” But I disagree. I mean… how can we not?

I would never forget the first connection I made with one of my patients. Of course, for privacy reasons, I won’t say his real name but just call him Papa. Papa and I would see each other five to six times a week for a whole year. We developed a great friendship and over time, he became family to me. We had become grandpa and grandson. In the final days of his life, I would never forget the last words he said to me. He said, “my son, remember to always treat people the way you want to be treated, and to always remember HIS greatest commandment – to LOVE one another.” He gave me a kiss on the cheek, told me he loved me, and said, “I’ll see you soon.” The very next day I arrived to work happy to see Papa but …. he was gone. He was a beautiful human being and heaven gained an angel that day. I truly believe God sent him to me to complete his mission here on Earth. For many years, I wondered about a grandparent’s love – now I do not.

      To Papa and I, race or background didn’t matter…love was most important. Working as a CNA for Healing Care Hospice not only allows me to help others, it allows me to spread kindness, compassion, and of course love.

   Although not by blood, I now feel as though I have many relatives and grandparents.

   So, believe me when I tell you that CNA’s do so much more than activities of daily living, taking vitals and filling out reports. We are here to help. We are here to hold hands when needed. We are here to give hugs and smiles. We are here to pray for you when asked. We are your friend. We are your family. CNA’S are LOVE!