Celebrating a Decade of Dedication: Tina Wernsing’s Journey with Home Matters Caregiving
In the realm of home health care, where empathy and dedication are the bedrock of success, Tina Wernsing shines as a remarkable example of commitment and growth. As she marks her 10-year anniversary with Home Matters Caregiving, Tina’s journey is a testament to the profound impact of compassionate care and the rewarding path of professional development.
A Passion Ignited by Personal Experience
Tina’s entry into the field was profoundly personal. Having cared for her husband for years, she understood the challenges of caregiving in your own home intimately. When offered a role at Home Matters Caregiving, she was initially apprehensive due to her personal experience with caregiving. However, it ended up being something she really enjoyed. It provided her with a fulfilling opportunity to extend her care beyond her own home. She discovered she had a genuine passion for helping others.
A Career Full of Highlights
Over the past decade, Tina has found every moment of her career to be a highlight. “My whole career has been a series of highlights. Whether it’s the deep connections I’ve made with clients or the trust and recognition I’ve received from my colleagues, every day feels rewarding. When a client’s family invites you to their wake or funeral, or continues to stay in touch long after their care has ended, those moments are incredibly special,” she shares.
Professional Growth and Continuous Learning
Over the past decade, Tina has seen her role evolve from caregiver to Assistant Community Manager. Starting out as a caregiver and moving into a management position has been a significant journey for Tina. “I’ve always preferred being active, so the company has accommodated my preference for a split role, allowing me to thrive and flourish in both areas,” she shares. Her growth is not just in title but in her vast knowledge, particularly in medication and patient care, areas where she continues to learn and expand her expertise. Her dedication to ongoing education and skill development is evident in her approach to her work and her role in mentoring others. Tina mentioned, “The moment you quit learning, you stagnate.”
As far as learning, “One of the biggest things I have learned in my time working at Home Matters is patience,” Tina shared. “There are different personalities, learning levels, skills of expertise, and this has taught me to be more patient with my coworkers and when working with people.”
Impacting the Community
Tina’s contributions have greatly influenced the success of Home Matters Caregiving. Her name is well-known within the Courtyard community, a testament to her dedication and the trust she has built with clients. “My role has allowed Home Matters to be a reliable and trusted resource within the building. There are not many people who live here that don’t know my name and know I work for Home Matters. I am a trusting, welcoming, and friendly face that they can count on. The relationships I’ve built help reinforce the company’s presence and commitment,” Tina says proudly.
Her impact extends beyond client interactions. Tina also plays a role in training staff, ensuring they are well-prepared to provide exceptional care. “There are wonderful nurses who train at the home office and do an absolutely wonderful job. I help with hands-on training for employees, especially in medication management. It’s rewarding to see them grow and succeed,” she notes.
Embracing Change and Looking Forward
Reflecting on the changes within the company, Tina appreciates the continuous improvements in support and training for caregivers. “The core values of Home Matters have stayed the same, which is why I’ve stayed. They genuinely care about their caregivers, and the enhanced support and training reflect that commitment,” she observes.
As for the future, Tina is content with her current path. “I’m happy where I am. I enjoy working directly with people and continue to seek opportunities for learning and certification. I don’t foresee major changes in the immediate future,” she says.
A Celebration of Dedication
Tina’s 10-year milestone has been celebrated with heartfelt gestures from her colleagues and the company. “I received flowers, a card signed by everyone, and a special gift from Christina and Clay—a football signed by the Green Bay Packers 1997 Super Bowl team. A gesture of appreciation that held personal significance for me. The support and recognition from the company have been wonderful and deeply appreciated,” Tina shares.
Advice for Aspiring Caregivers
For those considering a career in home health care, Tina offers sage advice. “Know your boundaries. This job can be emotionally intense and sometimes heartbreaking. If you don’t have a strong emotional filter and the ability to say no, you might face burnout, and you’re not going to flourish. It’s crucial to take care of yourself and find ways to unwind—whether that’s through reading, hobbies, or spending time with loved ones. Your well-being is essential to being able to provide the best care for others,” she advises.
A Legacy of Compassion
Tina’s decade with Home Matters Caregiving is a story of dedication, growth, and heartfelt service. Her journey highlights the incredible difference one person’s commitment can make in the world of home health care, serving as an inspiring example for others in the field.
