Bio
Hi, I'm Norma Tobar, I started my journey 16 years ago as a CNA in the Alzheimer unit at Motion Picture & TV Hospital SN. I remember being at the hospital and hearing on the Intercom that the Alzheimer unit needed a nurse, and I always volunteered to go. In that moment, I knew that I had a love and passion to help elderly people. After working there, I became a laser technician at Encino Health where I worked for a couple years. After that I took off for a couple years, and then I decided to jump back to my roots and work with the elderly. That's when I decided to become a caregiver!
HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN A CAREGIVER?
I've been a caregiver for the past 4 years.
WHAT MOTIVATED YOU TO BECOME A CAREGIVER?
I've always had a passion for working with the elderly. When I became a caregiver, it gave me the opportunity to be part of their lives and assist them with their needs. I am motivated knowing that I can help them with their care.
WHAT ASPECT OF YOUR JOB ARE YOU MOST PASSIONATE ABOUT?
I'm very passionate about my job when it comes down to seeing my patients comfortable and happy. I feel at peace knowing that I can provide a safe, caring, and clean environment as well as relieve the stress that the family might feel. At the end of my shift, I leave knowing that I have met their needs as a caregiver.
HOW ARE YOU MAKING THINGS MORE POSSIBLE FOR YOUR BRIGHTSTAR CLIENTS?
I always come to my patients with a positive attitude and listen to their needs.
WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR OTHER CAREGIVERS?
My advice for other caregivers is to always be patient and never take things personally. No matter how hard things may seem, I feel that it is well worth it at the end of each shift because helping another human being is a gift.
TELL US YOUR FAVORITE CAREGIVING MOMENT/STORY
I have so many patients that have touched my heart. I remember when COVID was at its peak and I was taking on a special case. The agency had been searching and searching for the right caregiver, but never found a good fit. Then I was matched with this special Client.I took on the case and met this wonderful patient. This was the most challenging case I have ever had.
After a year, she and I built a wonderful relationship and very strong bond. She always complimented me on how patient and gentle I was with her because she knew she herself was intense. After completing my care with her she will occasionally call me, just to say hello. This patient will always hold a special place in my heart.
HOW DO YOU RE-ENERGIZE?
I re-energize myself by hanging out with my big family. I have 5 brothers, and 2 sisters. I enjoy spending time with my kids and I love to travel. I love to be on the go and I am always ready to explore. At this point in my life, I am very happy to be a part of BrightStar Care of Conejo Valley.
A FEW WORDS ABOUT NORMA FROM AN APPRECIATIVE CLIENT:
Client Sue W (05/10/23): "I honestly could not have gotten through my mom's passing without Norma. She immediately knew how to do everything quickly. She was caring, patient, and such a blessing when my mom passed. I was so glad it was Norma that was with me. She was there, saying "How can I make this better?" She stayed with me till my Niece arrived so I would not be alone. She is an extraordinary woman, and the Best Caregiver anyone should hope to have.”
A FEW WORDS ABOUT NORMA FROM THE BRIGHTSTAR OFFICE STAFF:
Norma has true passion for her work as evidenced by her Clients always wanting her back. Norma knows how to expertly handle every situation and we are so grateful as she has been one of our five-star caregivers now for years!NORMA WILL BE A WEST COAST CANDIDATE FOR CAREGIVER OF THE YEAR. ONE EMPLOYEE WILL BE SELECTED FROM EACH REGION TO BECOME A BRIGHT STAR NATIONAL FINALIST. PLEASE SEE VIDEOS OF THE 2022 FINALISTS…(and get tissue): LINK TO CAREGIVER OF THE YEAR VIDEOS