Every morning, Vashone Smith arrives at work knowing she’ll be welcomed with smiles that “light up the whole room” and receive “a million thank yous” from the patients and families she serves. It’s moments like these that remind us why our personal care specialists are truly the heart of everything we do.  

During National Nursing Assistants Week, June 12-18, we join with the National Association of Health Care Assistants in celebrating our personal care specialists who work tirelessly to support our mission of Celebrating Life’s Stories^®. This year’s theme, “We are the Champions,” perfectly captures how we view these dedicated professionals who provide superior care and superior services to each patient and family we are honored and privileged to serve. 

Personal care specialists are the compassionate faces our patients and families interact with when we provide care. They are instrumental in promoting and safeguarding the physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual well-being of our patients. As part of our interdisciplinary care team, they provide essential hands-on care and support daily. 

“Personal care specialists are often referred to as the unsung heroes of healthcare,” said Yvonne Turner, regional vice president of clinical care. “You make a difference in the lives of your patients and families every day. Your unwavering commitment to providing excellent care, your willingness to go above and beyond, and your ability to provide comfort and support during such a difficult time for our patients and families is so appreciated.” 

Our personal care specialists deliver on our promise to provide superior care and superior services wherever patients call home — whether in nursing homes, assisted living facilities or private residences. 

Maria Overbay, a personal care specialist, explains what draws her to hospice care: “I love working for hospice because of the families you get to meet. You get to know these families on an intimate level. The care we provide is unlike any other as we are there in one of the most difficult, yet beautiful times in their lives.” 

Overbay values the teamwork that defines Ohio’s Hospice: “I love our team. My coworkers are amazing. They always check in on me making sure I’m OK and helping in any capacity. I am grateful to be a part of the Ohio’s Hospice team.” 

Smith has found fulfillment in her role as a personal care specialist. 

“My role as a personal care specialist has been nothing but amazing — helping those who are so appreciative of what we do and meeting so many fantastic people within our company,” Smith said. “I tend to come in and do my job and receive a million ‘thank yous’ and the biggest smiles that just light up the whole room. It’s such an honor to serve these beautiful people and to also be a part of a team that is so special, understanding, supportive, and caring.” 

Personal care specialist Tiffany Wion appreciates the supportive environment at Ohio’s Hospice: “Field staff have been welcoming and helpful. Care managers and team leaders have always been supportive and always quick to communicate. I enjoy my job because it feels like family, not just coming to work every day. I’m happy to work for such a compassionate and understanding organization.” 

Michelle Bain, a recent addition to the team, sees a bright future ahead: “In the short time I have been here, patients and their families have been very appreciative of what we do for their loved ones. I find it very rewarding and humbling, and it is my honor and privilege to work for a wonderful company. The staff that has trained me has been outstanding.” 

Our personal care specialists are guided by our values of servant leadership, kindness, honesty, and compassion. Like the National Association of Health Care Assistants, we recognize that nursing assistants are essential healthcare workers who deserve recognition for their vital contributions to patient care. As leaders in hospice and palliative care, we are interested in finding like-minded individuals to join our mission. 

If you have a heart for service and a passion for caring for others, learn more about how you can help us make a difference at Ohio’s Hospice. Apply today!