A Giving Spirit
Employee Spotlight: Valerie Moffett, LPN
Day Shift Nursing Supervisor, A.G. Rhodes Wesley Woods
Growing up, Valerie Moffett watched her mom care for others, and she knew she was going to follow a similar path.
“My mother was a CNA for decades,” Valerie said. “I’ve always been a nurturer. I’ve always had a giving spirit; I’ve known this is what I’m supposed to be doing.”
Born in Mississippi and raised in Georgia, Valerie studied nursing at Atlanta Tech and has been a Licensed Practical Nurse for more than 20 years. In addition to working in aging services, Valerie has worked in various settings throughout her career and over the last decade she’s worked mostly with patients receiving therapy and rehabilitation services. Since November, Valerie has worked at A.G. Rhodes Wesley Woods, and she’s a day shift nursing supervisor who primarily works with residents who come to A.G. Rhodes for therapy and rehabilitation services following an injury, illness or surgery. But Valerie says she does a little of everything and serves wherever she sees a need.
“With nursing, you have to take initiative; you can’t just be status quo. There’s always something to do. This is a field where you have to be a go-getter; do more than what’s required. Our elders deserve it.”
A.G. Rhodes Wesley Woods Administrator Latasha Ward says Valerie is constantly on the go to ensure elders are taken care of, and that other care partners are supported.
“Valerie is always jumping in to ensure our elders and their families have the best experience possible. She is one of the first people they meet when they come to A.G. Rhodes, and she puts them at ease to assure them that we’re here to help through a sometimes-difficult transition.”
Valerie says that she’s intentional about remaining positive and showing elders encouragement and support.
“We’re dealing with people who have a lot on their mind; they’re uncertain about the future. We have to show compassion; putting aside the medical part and the paperwork part of it—taking out the job side of it—and just relating with them one on one as human beings because that’s what we are. We’re not working on machines here.”
Valerie added, “It makes my day to see them smile, to see them heal, to see them loved.”
Even outside of work, Valerie is a caregiver. After her mother suffered a stroke two years ago, she moved in with Valerie.
“She’s made magnificent improvement, but she’s here with me now. I keep an eye on her and I’m very thankful I can do that.”
When asked what she wants others to know about her career field, Valerie said, “It’s not always easy, but it’s very worth it. When you can go home every day knowing you’ve done the best you can do, it’s very fulfilling.”
August 2024