Story Cards
Iowa CareGivers is partnering with the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services to create Story Cards featuring experiences of direct care workers, family caregivers, and students. This will be a place where you can share your story to inspire others and be inspired by the stories of others who share your passion and compassion.
“A resident that I took care of was able to go home. She came back to visit and gave all of us hugs. I make a difference when I put a smile on the residents faces and receive their hugs and hugs from family members. The residents, their family members, and my co-workers make me feel appreciated. When I became a Certified Nursing Assistant, I followed both of my sisters and was able to take the Certified Nursing Assistant course.”
Roslind Loder
Certified Nursing Assistant
Emmetsburg, IA
“In 2011 my sister became disabled. I became her guardian and family caregiver. It was a challenge to work full-time and provide her with the attention she needed. My sister and I were very close growing up and when she became disabled, she needed me in a whole new way. At the beginning I learned a lot about insurance, facilities, and medical care. I love to see my sister thrive due to the support I have given her. There are very few resources for family caregivers. It is an isolated journey.”
Elisabeth Buck
Retired / Family Caregiver
Des Moines, IA
“I was taking care of a hospice patient and found out that one of her sons was my high school teacher. It was an honor to know that I took care of his mom. At the visitation, he introduced me as a former student and mentioned how he appreciated all the care that I gave to her. Later, he sent a letter to the hospice with a donation. It is such an honor to know that I was able to make my client comfortable and with dignity through her journey.”
Sally Chapman
Hospice Aide (Retired)
Murray, IA
“I have been a home care aide for 25 years. I have made my career caring for people. My wish is that someday my career is viewed as a professional well-paid career that people will seek to do themselves and find it as rewarding as I have.”
Connie Cochran
Home Care Aide
Oskaloosa, IA
“During COVID, knowing I was going to be the last person to care for many that died, I took extra time to love them, and listen to them, their fears, regrets, and stories. It was hard, but I will forever be thankful I was there with them.”
Karen Kubura
Telehealth Care
Technician / Veteran’s Hospital
Urbandale, IA
“I wish I would have become a Certified Nursing Assistant while I was still in high school. It is something that I recommend to almost any young person who would like to develop a mature respect and patience for those in vulnerable positions. One of my favorite parts of being a direct care worker is the satisfaction of feeling needed and depended upon, especially as a traveling temp Certified Nursing Assistant filling in wherever necessary. There is almost always a shortage of somewhere within an hour of me being short-staffed, so the need is great.”
Kami Madsen
Certified Nursing Assistant
George, IA
“A dying resident looked at me and said, “Thanks for everything, Fran.” It was a profound moment for both of us on the dignity and reverence for life that is involved in direct care. Direct care is a compassionate connection with others that gives meaning and purpose to my life, and to the lives of those who receive it.”
Fran Mancl
Direct Support Professional, Certified Nursing Assistant (Retired)
"It takes a village" couldn't be more true as the "village" of family caregivers, direct care workers with Personal Touch Home Care, and my 98-year-old mother have worked together to keep her at home for the last 2.5 years! Family caregiving is tough, but the rewards are GREAT when we see Mom enjoy all that is home......changing seasons, neighbors and family visits, trips to the family farm, even trips to Des Moines - the list goes on!”
Julie McMahon
Family Caregiver (Retired Public Health Nurse, Iowa Department of Public Health)
“My father was in hospice. During the night I would sit with him. He loved ‘30s, ‘40s jazz and swing music so I would play it in his room. One hospice caregiver started to get him up from his chair and dance with him…which made that stressful act so enjoyable for my father. He always smiled and it made him happy.I always remember the kindness and attention to my father that this caregiver used to make this small activity right.”
Jim Miles-Polka
Family Caregiver
Des Moines, IA
“I worked as a Certified Nursing Assistant from 1986 to 2001 in various healthcare facilities. Taking care of someone else’s family member isn’t a job. It is a personal mission. I’ve cared for several family members before they passed away; my mom, her mother, my uncle, my dad, raised 3 granddaughters and now I’m taking care of my husband for the 3rd time. We’ve been married 18 years. Two years ago, he had a stroke. He deserves the care and respect that I give him. His wish is to be at home as long as possible. He also wants to pass away at home. Knowing that he says he is happy, makes me feel appreciated.”
Lauri Myers With Husband Brian
Family Caregiver and Former Certified Nursing Assistant
Hartley, IA
“I was assisting a resident to prepare to go to the hospital due to testing…she had cancer. A newer staff member assisting me stated, ‘I can tell how much you care.’ It made me feel good she recognized that I loved caregiving.”
Cindy Ramer
Certified Nursing Assistant (Retired)
Denver, IA
“I strive, on a daily basis, to make an impact on others’ lives. Seeing the individuals succeed on their goals and become more independent and successful is why I continue to do what I do.”
Derek Smith
Direct Support Professional
Oelwein, IA
“I really loved my job when I was working.I loved taking care of my residents. I enjoyed talking to my residents. I considered my residents as part of my family.”
Jeffrey Weinstock
Certified Nursing Assistant (Retired)
Knoxville, IA