Everyone thinks CNAs (certified nursing assistants) are just trained butt wipers, the fact is yes we wipe butt's but our job has much more meaning than that. To be a CNA you have to have lots of patients, be able to handle stress and whatever bullets are thrown at you during your shift. Being a CNA you have to show you care and be willing to sometimes even comfort your residents and patients. Being a CNA is tough.

I first stepped into this field of work by being a home health aide. I went to peoples houses and took care of them, meaning I gave them their medications, helped feed them, bath them, toilet them and take them out into their community to go shopping or just have some fun doing something other than being stuck in the house. I then decided to switch jobs and this is where I got my certification to be a CNA.

The experience of being a CNA has been amazing and nothing like I've ever done before. It makes you feel good to know that even after a long tiring day you helped somebody. Having great conversations and bonding with your residents is one of the most rewarding things. Cleaning them up and making sure they are taken care of is also very rewarding. Being a CNA has impacted me so much I want to become a nurse to continue to help people in need.

I love my job and every single one of my residents. I love getting to know them on a personal level. On days I have residents screaming and every one of them on their call lights or calling my name, it is very stressful and can be overwhelming but also it is worth it because at the end of the day they knew I was there when no one else was. So yes CNA wipe butts, give showers and our jobs sound really gross. But in reality this job teaches you how to be thankful for what ability you have to take care of yourself, it helps you appreciate life and it makes you feel good by being able to help others.