Congratulations to Runner-Up Diana R. from California.
Having two cousins with disabilities, one with autism and one with down syndrome, has given me a unique perspective on what it means to care for individuals with special needs. Growing up, I saw firsthand the patience, understanding, and dedication required to support someone with these challenges. In our family, we don’t have professional caregivers because we all pitch in to care for one another. Despite their disabilities, my cousins are incredibly happy and positive, always wearing smiles, even when faced with difficult situations. This made me curious about why they were so happy despite of the challenges they face out in society. It became clear to me that their happiness comes from the support and unconditional love they receive from their family, who takes the time to listen and understand them.
This realization inspired me to pursue caregiving. I now work at Tropical Villa-ARF, where I’ve found that my role is not just to provide assistance, but to truly connect with the residents, just as my family has done for my cousins. Over time, I’ve come to see the residents as my extended family. While we may not be related by blood, I spend so much time with them, providing emotional support, companionship, and care, that I genuinely feel like part of their lives. Knowing that I can make a meaningful difference in their day-to-day lives brings me great joy and motivates me to pursue a career in the medical field once I graduate from UC Davis.
Caregiving is not just about completing tasks, it’s about fostering an environment where individuals feel heard, valued, and respected. I’m proud to be there for the residents, whether it’s helping with daily activities or simply listening to what they have to say. Even though many residents at Tropical Villa don’t have regular visits from their families, I do my best to be a source of comfort and support for them, just as I would for my own family. The experience has not only deepened my understanding of caregiving but also strengthened my desire to continue helping others in the future through healthcare.
