Employee Spotlight: Robin McFadden, CNA, Med Tech at A.G. Rhodes Wesley Woods
Robin McFadden has been serving in a caregiving role for most of her life. She worked at a day care center years ago and then inspired by her mother who worked in nursing, Robin became a certified nursing assistant (CNA). Now a Med Tech, she has served in various positions at A.G. Rhodes Wesley Woods where she’s been working since it opened in 1997. Prior to that, Robin worked at the Wesley Woods Health Center and moved over to A.G. Rhodes to help open it along with several other employees from the Center. In total, she’s been working in long-term care for more than 35 years.
Robin acknowledges that there are good days and bad days, but she gets a lot of satisfaction from her job.
“Being a CNA is a hard job, but it’s rewarding,” she said. “The way the elders appreciate you; it’s just rewarding to do what I do for them.”
Robin says one of the most rewarding aspects of her job is not only getting to know the residents, but for them to get to know her.
“It makes me think they really trust me,” she said.
In addition to being a Med Tech, Robin is also part of A.G. Rhodes’ Leadership Development Program, which promotes professional development within the organization and prepares participants for business management or clinical management roles in the health care field. She says that even though she’s been at A.G. Rhodes a long time, the program has opened her eyes to a lot more about the organization, and it has expanded her career interests.
“It’s been so interesting to shadow people and learn more about the different jobs they do and what it entails,” she said. “My goal when I got into this program was to open a personal care home after I retire. I still want to do that, but since being involved in this program, I’m also interested in becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN).”
Additionally, Robin is an active participant in—and champion for—A.G. Rhodes’ employee wellness program called Live Well. As a champion, she participates in— and encourages her colleagues to participate in—various initiatives like 5K walks/runs. Robin says taking time for wellness activities is important in this line of work.
“It’s very important for the job—it gives you an outlet. Everybody needs an outlet.”
A.G. Rhodes Wesley Woods Administrator Latasha Ward says that Robin’s involvement at A.G. Rhodes sets a wonderful example for her fellow care partners.
“Whether it’s her interaction with elders and staff during her shifts, or her participation in the leadership development and wellness programs, Robin makes invaluable contributions in so many different areas of A.G. Rhodes,” Latasha said. “We’re incredibly fortunate to have someone so dedicated and versatile on our team.”
Robin recognizes that to make a career in long-term care, you have to possess the passion, patience, and skill for serving others.
“I do think it takes a special person to work in this field,” Robin said. “It has to be in you.”
December 2024