CHILLICOTHE — When Leah Litteral, a Chillicothe-based caregiver with Village Caregiving, walks into a home, she isn’t just there to help out; she is there to get to know the person, listen to stories and become a friend.
Her positive attitude is what has led clients to ask for her to return and has helped win her a Caregiver Recognition from Village Caregiving.
Village Caregiving helps provide non-medical care to seniors in the area, allowing them to stay in their homes longer. This includes companionship, cleaning, meal prep and more. The Chillicothe office serves residents in Ross and the surrounding counties.
More from the Gazette: Zane Trace students take on the Team Tressel Fitness Challenge
The Caregiver Recognition is an award given by Village Caregiving. This is the second year of the award being given to caregivers. Over 500 caregivers were nominated by offices in 21 different states. Litteral was one of 10 chosen for this recognition.
Executive for Chillicothe’s Village Caregiving Director Julienne Branham said Litteral was nominated, and ultimately chosen, because she puts her role as a caregiver ahead of everything else and ensures that clients get what they need to live a high-quality life.
Ever since she was little and went into nursing homes to volunteer with her grandmother, Litteral said she knew she wanted to go into this line of work. She started working as a caretaker three years ago, on top of her other job, where she works in a nursing home kitchen.
When she was told about being nominated and winning this recognition, Litteral said she could have cried and that it was nice to know those around her recognize her dedication.
“It was really great,” said Litteral of winning.
Litteral said she enjoys spending time with each client, getting to know them and hearing their stories. As they spend more time together, she says they become like a second family to her.
“I love what I do,” said Litteral.
This article originally appeared on Chillicothe Gazette: Chillicothe caregiver recognized for outstanding client care
Reporting by Shelby Reeves, Chillicothe Gazette / Chillicothe Gazette
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
