Renee’s Story

For 10 years, Renee Foley watched as her father struggled with the effects of Parkinson’s disease. Her proud dad struggled to get out of his chair, fell often, and pushed himself weekly at physical therapy. He would try to lift his feet to walk but instead stood still because his shoes felt like they were sticking to the floor.

 “He was frustrated because his brain was telling him to do something, but his body wouldn’t allow him,” said Renee. “It was difficult seeing your dad go through something like that, and it was even more difficult for him. He would say to me, ‘You are a good kid. Thanks for being patient with me.’” Renee’s father passed away in 2013.

 Following a fulfilling 30-year career in the childcare field, Renee’s experience with her father inspired her to make a change to health care, specifically senior care. The first step in that journey was to take the necessary training. Managing around her day job, Renee found evening classes to train as both a nursing assistant and a medication aide.

 Renee’s education was supported in part by a scholarship from the Nebraska Health Care Foundation.

 “Financially, I would not have been able to take the Medication Aide course without the Nebraska Health Care Foundation scholarship,” said Renee. “I was blessed.”

 Renee now works full-time at an assisted living community, where she supports residents through activities and as a nursing assistant and medication aide.

 “I get the honor of listening to residents’ amazing stories,” said Renee. “I enjoy seeing them achieve daily goals. I have patience with the residents because I feel they deserve it. I am caring for someone’s parents and I would expect the same for mine. My heart is so full because of them! I really feel that my dad was somehow involved in helping me find this position. I am so happy I took the path to work with the elderly. They have made my life complete.”