Our parents prepared my siblings and me for everything in life - preparation was always key. The one thing they forgot to prepare us for was their well-being and end-of-life care. They told us never to worry and that everything was taken care of such as POAs and wills and where they were to be buried one day. We never really questioned them on this. We didn't think anything else about it until the time came when they were not able to make decisions, even though conversations were had numerous times. We were lost. Having paperwork prepared is not the same as a time when outside assistance is needed for their care, well-being, and how to navigate Medicaid.

I had taken an early retirement for one year after my parents passed. While spending time reflecting, I kept asking, "I need a sign." I need to spend the time I have left on this earth helping others in need and those who don't know they even have needs. I want to see that smile and that sense of relief on someone's face that I had so many years ago when I first began working out of college. I never want people to go through what my siblings and I went through trying to figure things out when it comes to caring for their loved ones.

After my hiatus from work, I noticed an opening at Beneficent. I thought to myself, "What is that?" I must have researched Beneficent for a couple of days. I read the reviews and what they were all about. I had never felt so compelled to utilize my skill set for what I had been looking for - to help others at such a difficult time.

In my role, I have the absolute privilege to speak with our clients first. I hear their stories and I hear their hesitation, thinking, "Can this be real?" I know we can help them, even if they think we can't. This is why I do what I do - to help others in such a difficult time. I know we make a difference. The absolute sense of relief that they have after speaking with one of our Case Managers drives me to do what I do.

Outside of the office, I love to spend time with my husband. We love to go hiking, travel, explore new areas, and spend quality time with our friends and family, both near and far. I am a movie fanatic, so we go to the movies at least once a month.