Each year, people across the United States observe Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15-October 15. At A.G. Rhodes, we celebrate the contributions of our diverse residents, families, and staff, including Monique Young, an A.G. Rhodes Cobb CNA Care Partner who is of Puerto Rican descent.
From Tragedy, a Calling
Employee Spotlight: Monique Young, CNA
A tragedy that struck nearly 30 years ago sparked Monique Young’s 27-year-and-counting career as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA).
“I had a son who passed at an early age,” Monique said. “He had a liver disease and had multiple liver transplants. It was the passion of seeing the nurses and how they cared for my son; that did something to me, and I said, ‘I want to do this.’”
Encouraged by her sister who is a Registered Nurse, Monique became a CNA. She still works at A.G. Rhodes Cobb where she started her career in 1997. During that time, Monique has worked primarily with elders living with dementia and she says they hold a special place in her heart.
“I want to let them know it’s okay. When they get scared or confused, I redirect them to let them know that we can make their surroundings feel like home. We’re still going to live and have fun.”
Monique says she especially enjoys reminiscing with the elders about their lives.
“It’s more than taking care of them. They had careers too; some of them are teachers, some of them are lawyers, so we celebrate that.”
In addressing misperceptions that some might have of living and working in nursing homes, Monique says she strives to assure elders and their families of the homelike, loving environment that she helps create.
“It’s ok to be in a nursing home because we love you too; we’re family.”
And like a family member, Monique gets excited to see her elders happy. Just recently, a new memory care building opened on A.G. Rhodes’ Cobb campus which affords each resident at the new building—and in the existing remodeled building—a private room among many other improvements.
“I love it for them,” Monique said. “When I first made the tour, I was like, ‘They’re going to love this.’ I was so grateful and happy for them.”
A.G. Rhodes Cobb Administrator Jovonne Harvey says that while the physical improvements at A.G. Rhodes are wonderful, it’s care partners like Monique who have the most impact on the elders’ quality of life.
“It’s clear that Monique was called to do this work,” Jovonne said. “Her compassionate care makes a significant difference in their day.”
Monique says she doesn’t take the importance of her role lightly.
“It’s so emotional for me; just coming here knowing that I’m going to come and make someone smile and make them feel comfortable. Just reassuring them of our love and care, and that they’re going to be ok.”
And with nearly three decades devoted to this work, Monique has no plans to change course.
“I just love being here and I’m so grateful that at my age—I’m 56—I’m still able to do this work, and I just pray that I continue to do this work until I retire.”
October 2024