Some people are born with a heart for caregiving — for Bessie, that calling started long before she earned her CNA license. Growing up in Africa, she cared for her grandmother through a serious illness, providing the same attentive, loving care you would give to a child. That experience left a lasting imprint, shaping the way she approaches every client today.
When she first arrived in the United States, Bessie helped a woman with household tasks. Whenever the regular CNA couldn’t make it, she stepped in to provide care — and quickly formed strong bonds with the seniors she met. Encouraged by others who saw her talent and compassion, she pursued her CNA certification, completing her training and passing her exams. Her first role was at a local nursing home, where she built connections during her clinical training. Although she loved her clients, the heavy workload of caring for many residents alone at night took its toll. A friend introduced her to Senior1Care and the difference was immediate — the one-on-one home care environment allowed her to focus on building trust and deep, meaningful relationships with each client.
Bessie’s approach is simple but powerful: She takes the time to truly get to know her clients, learning their likes and dislikes, and creating a foundation of trust from day one. She treats each person “like my own blood,” often referring to her current client as “Mom.” She’s there to provide comfort as much as care — from offering a calming massage when she senses stress, to sharing in laughter, tears, and stories from the past.
Her work has included supporting clients with advanced dementia, walking with families through hospice care, and helping individuals transition home from nursing facilities. In each situation, she has demonstrated patience, empathy, and the ability to navigate sensitive family dynamics with professionalism and grace.
Outside of work, Bessie enjoys spending time with her family, cooking, and traveling. Her dream vacation spot is Florida, where she can relax and refresh her mind. At home, she helps care for her 4-year-old stepson and is making plans to bring her own son from Africa to join the family.
For Bessie, caregiving is more than a job — it’s a way of life. “It’s not just about taking care of them,” she says. “It’s also about giving them comfort.” That heartfelt philosophy is what makes her such an extraordinary part of the Senior1Care team.
The post Caregiver Spotlight: Bessie appeared first on Senior1Care.
