Bio
I am a grandmother of three. I love relaxing with my cat. I enjoy going to movies and socializing with friends.HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN A CAREGIVER?
I have been a caregiver for approximately 10 years. I have been employed with BrightStar Care as a caregiver for almost five months now.WHAT MOTIVATED YOU TO BECOME AN CAREGIVER?
After caring for my mom with Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP), I became familiar with the disorder in all physical aspects, such as mobility issues ranging from ambulatory to bedbound. The experience also showed me the emotional distress from this disorder. I also realized that caring for her around the clock was a job that someone would not be able to do without suffering burden and stress. When she passed a year ago, I felt the need to make a difference in people’s lives. I wanted to ensure those who need care have the opportunity of being in an environment where their needs are covered.
WHAT ASPECT OF YOUR JOB ARE YOU MOST PASSIONATE ABOUT?
I enjoy seeing a smile on client’s faces. I love seeing them brighten up when they speak about themselves and their experiences. I’m most passionate about caring for them with love and empathy, so that they know they are not alone.
HOW ARE YOU MAKING MORE POSSIBLE FOR YOUR BRIGHTSTAR CLIENTS?
I treat them as I would like to be treated if I were in their situation. I do all that is possible to care for whatever they might need.
WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR OTHER CAREGIVERS?
Observe details, listen with care, and plan for individual needs of a client by giving 100%. Start and end each shift wholeheartedly, and always be prepared for the unexpected!
TELL US YOUR FAVORITE CAREGIVER MOMENT/STORY
It is difficult to point at one in particular moment or story because I have experienced so many different moments! I do remember one client who suffered severe dementia. I said to her, "You are so beautiful!”, she responded, "Oh don’t say that. What is beauty?". I’ve noticed that so many people only see beauty from an exterior perspective. To me beauty is in the soul!
HOW DO YOU RE-ENERGIZE?
Coffee with friends, a good massage, spending time with family, and going to support groups! Also eating good food, quality sleep, and lots of water helps 😊.A FEW WORDS ABOUT DORA FROM AN APPRECIATIVE CLIENT:
"BrightStar Care came through with flying colors: we had an emergency and we needed a caregiver very, very early each and every morning; and we only had a day to find the right person. We reached out to many agencies. Barbara West of Brightstar Care of Conejo Valley was the consummate professional who stayed on the job and found a fantastic, kind, gentle, and professional lady to help my mother-in-law: Dora Barajas. Dora is an exceptional caregiver. BrightStar Care of Conejo Valley has developed an exceptional culture of care, compassion, and professionalism which shows up in all your dealings with the firm." - A. S.
A FEW WORDS ABOUT DORA FROM THE BRIGHTSTAR OFFICE STAFF:
"Dora is reliable and always has a positive attitude! She is competent in her tasks and clients are very happy to have her!"
DORA WILL BE A WEST COAST CANDIDATE FOR CAREGIVER OF THE YEAR. ONE EMPLOYEE WILL BE SELECTED FROM EACH REGION TO BECOME A BRIGHT STAR NATIONAL FINALIST. PLEASE SEE VIDEOS OF THE 2022 FINALISTS…(and grab a tissue): Watch caregiver of the year videos here.