Cheryl Marsh
Tuesday, September 4, 2012, 8:00 am Pacific, 8:00 am Mountain, 10:00 am Central, 11:00 am EST, 12:00 pm Atlantic, 5:00 pm Zurich, 6:00 pm Istanbul, Dubai 8:00 pm
A Passion for Working with Elders Who Are Experiencing Memory Loss and Other Evolving Abilities
Caring for those with memory loss is often seen as a burn-out profession. Gain insight into what first attracted one woman to this profession and why she remained dedicated to the field of eldercare. Cheryl Marsh delights in working with those who are experiencing memory loss. Her passion comes from her heart and her strong belief in the vibrancy of individuals experiencing forgetfulness, regardless of their life and/or health challenges.. She believes that regardless of what someone "tells" us on the outside that we must always believe that inside the essence of that person is there and needs our connection and respect.
Bio
As a child Cheryl volunteered for a convalescent center where her mother worked as a nurse. It was there that Cheryl developed a deep respect for the residents and a desire to serve seniors. Cheryl has held various positions within senior housing and has served as Family Services Coordinator, Director of Marketing as well as Executive Director.
Introduction
This is Dr. Sally Gelardin with Careerwell Tele-Interviews. Today's interviewee, Cheryl Marsh, started working with elders as a child. She has worked in the field of aging for most of her life in a variety of positions. She was recently chosen to be the Executive Director of Bayside Park, an eldercare and assisted living community in Emeryville, CA. Cheryl will give us insight into her career working with elders, including describing her skills, interests, values, family influences, and other factors that have contributed to the growth of her career. Welcome Cheryl.
Introduction
Caring for those with memory loss and a change in abilities is often seen as a burn-out profession. Gain insight into what first attracted Cheryl Marsh to this profession and why she has remained dedicated to the field of eldercare. Cheryl delights in working with those who are experiencing memory loss. Her passion comes from her heart and her strong belief in the vibrancy of individuals experiencing forgetfulness, regardless of their life and/or health challenges.. She believes that regardless of what someone "tells" us on the outside that we must always believe that inside the essence of that person is there and needs our connection and respect. She started working with elders as a child and has worked in the field of aging for most of her life in a variety of positions. She was recently selected to be the Executive Director of Bayside Park, an eldercare and assisted living community in Emeryville, CA. In this interview, Cheryl provides insight into her career working with elders by describing her skills, interests, values, family influences, and other factors that have contributed to the growth of her career.
Interview Questions
When did your first get into the field of eldercare?
I helped my mother study for her nursing exam. As a child I volunteered for a convalescent center where my mother worked as a nurse. It was there that I developed a deep respect for the residents and a desire to serve seniors. I became a CNA [Certified Nursing Assistant] and held many other roles, such as Director of Marketing, Family Services Coordinator, and Executive Director.
Who were your primary mentors? How have they influenced you in your life/career?
My mother influenced my career and I am also a model for my children. Both of my children have worked in assisted living communities. My son wore a tie and served residents. Both love the field.
What are your primary values that synchronize with the values of your new workplace at Bayside Park?
I have a strong sense of ethics. I want what’s best for the residents of the community. I value continual learning and am a hands-on leader. I shall work with staff through coaching and mentoring. I believe in leading by example.
4. Do you have any hobbies or special interests outside of work? If so, what are these and how might they impact your role as ED? The field of eldercare, and especially your new position, can be demanding at times. How do you unwind and relax?
My work is a big part of my life. I’m also a bookworm and spiritual. I read mostly books related to eldercare and spirituality. I walk every day.
5. What is your preferred learning style; i.e., visual/spatial, musical, interpersonal, kinesthetic, or interpersonal?
I am musical and kinesthetic. I like to walk around the community and get to know residents.
6. What is your favorite kind of work environment?
A large community, where there is more activity
7. How do you see your career developing in the future?
I shall always work in this field.