52yrs

female

Speaks English, Sign Language (ASL)

I have dedicated my career to serving individuals with special needs. I have over 20 years experience in working with children and adults with special needs. I have worked with people with a variety of diagnoses. I believe that a diagnosis is something a person has, not who they are. I enjoy taking time to learn about the person, what they like, what is important to them, and helping them experience the life that they want- while helping to keep them safe and healthy. I am fully committed to both. I am the chair of a Local Human Rights Committee in Virginia, and care about upholding the dignity and respect of all persons. I am a certified instructor of American Red Cross First Aid/ CPR (as well as Lay Responder), and a Therapeutic Options Instructor (a method of Positive Behavioral Supportive interventions). I am certified to administer medications and feedings. I am an instructor for sign language and seizure management, as well as aspiration pneumonia, fractures and falls, bowel obstructions, dehydration, skin care/repositioning, and other medical areas that often affect individuals with special needs. This is not just something that I do, it is my vocation and part of who I am.