And on the 8th day, God looked down on his planned paradise and said,
“I need a caregiver of the people.” So God made a CNA.

God said, “I need somebody willing to get up before dawn, or stay  up through the night to answer call lights, work on their feet for    a whole shift, stay over when someone calls off, then go home to cook dinner, help with homework, laundry, baths, all in order to take care of their own family. Even when their whole body aches from work.” So God made a CNA.

God said, “I need somebody willing to work at double speed for 8, 12, or 16 hours. I need somebody willing to spend Easter, Thanksgiving, and Christmas holidays with them instead of with their own family, someone who will keep smiling with a positive attitude throughout.” So God made A CNA.

God said, “I need somebody with arms strong enough to pick them up and put them to bed, but yet gentle enough to reposition without waking them in the middle of the night. I need somebody  to give showers, change briefs, dress them, comb hair, trim and paint nails, walk with, or push them to where they want to go, feed the hungry, fill water pitchers, get snacks, and then change yet another brief. I need somebody who, while doing this, can take the time to listen and talk with a caring heart, a kind voice, and mean it.” So God made a CNA.

God said, “I need somebody willing to comfort, provide care, and hold a hand in times of need. And if no one is there for them, do the same while they lie dying at the end. I need somebody who can comfort their family members with a hug and tell them that their loved one will be missed, all while not letting them see you dry your eyes.” So God made a CNA.

Written by: Frank Roloson, CNA
Lutheran Social Services, Gettysburg, PA