Greetings from the great state of Oregon,

You know, when I was growing up, I had no idea I was going to become a caregiver for those who are elderly or handicapped.
But here I am. A six foot tall, bearded Jewish mother. And you know what? I ENJOY my work. I've got lots of other skills to make a living with, but this was just a natural fit. It feeds my sense of compassion.

For the past 10 years, I've been a caregiver to a quadraplegic man here in the Coos Bay area. Been a live-in for the past 7. In addition, I also take care of an 80 year old elderly lady. Both my clients would swear I can almost walk on water. Such is my reputation. I fight for my people. And I've saved both their lives on more than one occasion.

To be a caregiver, you need nothing more than the desire to care. It's not about the money. As a group, we're not very well paid. It's about taking time out of your own life and your own energy reserve, and giving to people who don't have as much as you do. This is more of a calling than a job.

As the population ages, the demand for caregivers is only going to increase. And it's cheaper on the taxpayer to keep folks in their home than it is to send them off to care facility somewhere. Not to mention, they're just far, far happier to be in their own homes. State of mind affects the health, you understand.

I've decided to move to your area hopefully by the end of this summer. I look forward to entering the caregiver community there.

So, if I cross the border, what can I do for you?


Dan Collins