Written by Amber Bowman
Caregivers play a crucial role in the healthcare industry. They help individuals age comfortably and safely in their own homes, while also providing companionship and emotional support. With this month’s employee spotlight, Synergy would like to thank one of our superstar caregivers, Ruth Herrle.
Ruth started her caregiver journey while caring for several members of her own family. For years she took on the caregiving responsibility and learned firsthand how challenging it can be. But that didn’t deter her! Ruth stepped away from the corporate world and turned her compassion for caregiving into a full-time career. She has since given relief to countless individuals and families by working full-time at two different homecare agencies. Her daughter has even followed in her footsteps and is in nursing school!
Ruth is beyond dedicated to her clients-working with them seven days a week! She has unwavering patience which helps her connect because clients know she is with them whether they are having a good day or bad. They tackle difficult tasks together with Ruth’s positive encouragement. A client recently asked her how she is always so happy and Ruth simply replied “Because we need more joy in our lives!”. Her positive energy is infectious and can help brighten any situation. She credits her motivational energy with lots of healthy foods and free time spent recharging with her family. Ruth is overflowing with gratitude which is a joy to be around and her clients adore her.
Another aspect of Ruth that the clients love is her compassion and empathy. She understands how some clients may not like where they are in this stage of life- whether they are sick, bedridden, or in any other way dependent on others for things they used to be able to do themselves. She loves her clients and easily enjoys their company. Ruth said a key to her successful client relationships is being present. Every day when she gets to a clients house she leaves her problems at the door so that she can be one hundred percent there for the other person. When talking to Ruth it’s easy to feel like you are the most important thing in the world! She said it’s essential in this profession to really listen to each client and engage with them by asking questions, letting them talk, and appreciating what they say. Especially with clients who are nonverbal or struggle with communicating, she makes sure to talk out loud and converse with them.
When asked to advise aspiring caregivers Ruth says, “It’s simple to do. You need patience, to listen, and most of all just be kind”. When a client is having a rough day sometimes all they need to push through is someone there who cares and loves them at that moment. Ruth is the kind voice that knows what to say to her clients-if they need extra encouragement to get out of bed that day, a little laugh, or just someone to be there and be nice when they are in pain.
Ruth loves working with Synergy and explains how the agency is extra special in how Christine and Kurt go up and beyond for each individual no matter how difficult the case. The same can be said for Ruth and without caregivers like her, Synergy wouldn’t be where they are today. Thank you Ruth for your continued commitment to your clients, presence in all that you do, empathy, gratitude, and most of all kindness.
