A message from our Executive Director for Disability Support Professionals Week

“One person caring about another represents life’s greatest value.” — Jim Rohn, author

Direct Care Professional, the greatest job in the world, and a life changing educational experience.

Teachers collage did not compare to the lessons I learned as a care giver. A very long time ago, after the first day of my orientation in a group home, I returned home to my family. As I spoke of my experience, I realized that anyone of us could be that person in the group home. Our lives can change in a split second. I see firsthand what I took for granted: my human rights, privacy, choices, freedoms, companionship, respect, personal possessions, the list is endless. This was a life changing experience which set the pace for what I chose as my career path. It did not take deep sole searching to recognize that to provide care, I need to experience a day in a life of someone receiving care, and let those lessons guide my actions.

So, what kind of caregiver would I like to support me, or my family? It became clear, that the freedoms and experiences that I treasure, are very likely the same for the person receiving care. This thought stayed with me till today, and it guides me in every decision I make; see the person before the issue.  Each day I remember that one day I will receive care also, and I hope that my care givers will see the person first.

The lessons I learned as care giver:

It is always valuable to count to 10 before reacting, I cannot take words back

I learned that body language speaks louder than words, and people receiving care are experts at reading body language

I learned to sing same songs every day to bring joy

I learn to appreciate my rights and privileges which I took for granted

I learned patience, truly, there is no deadline in daily living

I learned that behaviours are the way of communicating that choices were taken away, primary needs were not met, having pain or discomfort. They are never meant to hurt another

I learned that maintaining respect for person who is having difficult time serves as a teaching moment for them and they will always remember it

I learned that every person wants to do good things and be appreciated for it

I learned that small steps lead to achievements

I learned the supporting a person to maintain their dignity is my biggest human responsibility

I learned that everyone has strengths, we just need to look for them

I learned that you cannot make choices without experiences

I learned to accept people as they are, but always envision potential

I was given opportunity to experience First Nations culture and customs

I learned healthy living, following Canada Food Guide, and good housekeeping practices

I got plenty of exercise without paying membership fee

I had fun every day, we laughed, and sometimes we cried

I learned that it is best to ask rather than presume

I learned that grow-ups do not always finish what is on their plate, and some time they eat to be polite

I learned to keep promises

These are only few of the valuable lessons I learned as a care giver, and at the end of the day, I was the one who got paid.

Over the years, I met many caregivers who share similar life lessons, experiences, and values. These Caregivers work at Chip and Dale Homes. Each and everyone of you is an outstanding professional who comes to work with a smile on your face, and a goal to make a difference in another person’s life.

This week we celebrate your career choice, the value you bring to Chip and Dale Homes, and the joy you bring to the lives of people you support to have a meaningful life filled with experiences, opportunities and choices that are similar to ours.

Thank You Chip and Dale Homes Direct Care Professionals!

You are an outstanding Team, and it is a privilege to be working with you!

Lucy Mazden

Executive Director