Martial D.

I am from Cote d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast) in West Africa, and speak English and French. I have been a caregiver since 2008, and have a Home Health Aide license. I come from a country that experienced lots of political instability and I have seen people in really dangerous, tough situations. I was raised in a culture that personally cared for its elderly people, as there were no nursing facilities in my home country. My uncle who raised me was a nurse, and like him, I see caregiving as a calling. I want to care for everyone who needs my help. My favorite part of caregiving is the challenge of meeting new clients, establishing a relationship with them, and earning their trust. I have cared for clients who had dementia and cancer as well as many other conditions. For example, a past client suffered from depression and Alzheimer's. He had a hard time waking up in the morning. I helped him establish a routine, and he became accepting that I was there to help him. My clients' family members would say lots of good things about me. They would recommend me as a caregiver, and they would say I am part of their family. They appreciate how much I helped their family member and often call and thank me for my service to their loved one. One family member said, "Because of Martial, my family member was in good hands and passed with dignity." I would describe myself as passionate about caregiving, empathetic to my client's situation, understanding of my client's feelings, and goal-oriented. I will work with clients in all different situations, and welcome every new client with a smile and can-do attitude. When I am not working, I like to run, exercise, and spend time with my family.