Wendell, 49

(1/2) How did you become a CNA? “My grandfather was in a VA [facility] and he had a good end of life. He told us how much he respected the staff and how they did a good job. On the other hand, my grandmother had a bad experience. She was in a skilled nursing home. Her experience was totally different. Within six months she developed some very bad decubitus and that was the beginning of me wanting to find a way to make a difference, so no one else would have to go through that. Once I started my career in health care, I realized that I wanted to be a CNA because that’s what I enjoy the most. For me, it’s what my heart says. That’s why I do it. That’s my passion.”

What’s the best part of being a CNA? “When I get to make a difference in someone’s life, especially for those who don’t have any family at all or family that visit. For instance, I’m not a big holiday person, but the one holiday I love to spend with my residents is Christmas because I know that’s a big holiday for everyone. So I make it a point to always be there for them on Christmas.”