What initially drew you to being a DSP?
I am a trained teacher for many years so teaching and nurturing is something that comes naturally. When I entered this field and realized the similarities my interest was piqued. Watching my residents succeed in life events with the smallest task makes me feel joyful and gives me a sense of pride watching them achieve their goals.
What has inspired you to stay with JSDD for over two decades?
I was inspired to stay with JSDD simply because their mission and goals align with some of my core values like teaching the ladies that work how self-advocacy and community involvement take away the world belief that somehow, they are limited.
When I am working with the ladies I try to inspire them to try different approaches to succeed with their goals on a daily basis.
Working the overnight shift can be challenging. What does a typical night look like for you, and how do you ensure residents feel comfortable and secure?
Overnight shifts can be challenging. I have always had a niche for that shift since I consider myself a night owl. During the nights I am more focused and have established a positive relationship with the women. These ladies and I have an extremely long relationship. During the morning outline is when we have our greatest conversations. A typical night is pretty straightforward. After taking a report, I check on the ladies to make sure they are all safe and accounted for. If they are awake, we chitchat about our day. During the course of the night, I physically check on each lady ensuring that everyone is doing well, no labored breathing or anything out of the ordinary. If someone is awake, I will check to see if they are just relaxing or having any issues (ie. Are they in pain, sick) sometimes they just want to talk. Since we do have such strong, positives relationships they are all very open with me.
Having spent so much time in the same group home, you’ve likely built strong relationships with residents. Can you share a memorable moment that highlights the bond you’ve formed with them?
I do have a strong bond with these ladies, I can relate to them in the home and in the community. My special memories are always about our vacations, when we are outside of a normal routine, and they can let their hair down. These ladies are natural comedians and keep me laughing especially on outings.
In your view, how has JSDD and the care for residents evolved over the years?
JSDD has evolved by improving their services with technology that strengthens the ladies’ lives and encourages everyone to embrace the new way of thinking and working efficiently to better the lives of all residents in their care.
What are some ways that working in this role has impacted or shaped your life personally?
The biggest personal impact that has shaped my life is how I have changed my way fo thinking about folks with IDD on a daily basis. I have always known about people with IDD however my entire perception has changed after witnessing the ladies’ unique personalities and successes through the years. I have developed a different sense of humility and admiration for these individuals. I have become a strong advocate socially and professionally.
What advice would you give to someone new to this field, especially those considering the unique demands of the overnight shift?
I would advise anyone who wants to work in this field to make sure they are operating from a sense of purpose, humility and kindness. Which means they must realize they will face unique challenges for their residents but having the courage to help change those challenges into a strength takes a special person that leads with heart having the ability to provide assistance without pity at all times. Patience will be the key to understanding that all of us are the same with different challenges so we must lead with kindness for everyone. I would advise a newbie wanting to work nights to try the shift then be honest with themselves since this is not an easy shift, but it always comes with tremendous responsibilities. After such trials they must make an honest decision if this is a shift they can come to and give their greatest effort because these ladies depend on staff for safety and patience.
Looking back on 22 years of service, what are you most proud of? And what do you hope the future holds for the residents and the organization?
After 22 years with JSDD and particularly the ladies of the Livingston home who I work with, they have all intertwined with my life experiences. I have a sense of pride when I reminisce on the goals they have achieved. The positive shift in their personalities. It is like watching a flower that you cared for bloom.
As I approach my golden years, I do hope JSDD continues to hire, train and retian a new generation of employees who have a heart for this profession. It would directly impact the lives of the residents so they can move through life with strength and not focused on their disabilities.