Media Hub / March 26, 2025
Andrea Smith cares for her clients as if they were her own family. Many of her clients are elderly, require full support, and have lived in support services for most of their lives. These individuals are non-verbal with profound disabilities, and most have no family support and are unable to advocate for themselves. Andrea focuses on each person and learns their unique way of communicating. She provides them with a safe space and allows them to be as independent as possible while still assisting as they need. Since these individuals do not have family contact, Andrea provides a loving environment with compassion in their daily routines. She spends one-on-one time with each person and takes her time with their care routine, so it never feels rushed. You can often see Andrea’s clients sitting around the table together, enjoying crafts or snacks while they listen to music they enjoy. Andrea encourages them to sit outside enjoying the weather, laughing, and socializing with peers and staff.
Andrea is a passionate DSP who provides the best care for her clients and holds others accountable to do the same. She makes sure to voice the needs of her clients and will stand firm until their needs are met. The clients trust Andrea and feel safe with her. She is aware of each person’s specific health and will advocate for them if she feels their health is declining or their needs are unmet. Recently, a client experienced a loss of appetite, no longer feeding herself. Andrea spent time each day talking with her and assisting her during mealtimes to ensure she had a healthy amount of food. She showed patience and compassion as the client’s health declined. Thanks to Andrea’s care, this client passed away peacefully, surrounded by those who cared for her most. It isn’t easy to care for a client at the end of life, and Andrea did it with great courage and respect. It is a difficult sacrifice for DSPs to care for someone they have grown to love and consider like family as they pass on. Andrea did it bravely and without question.
Andrea is passionate about her work, provides the best care for her clients, and holds others accountable to do the same.
Media Coverage
The Southern Illinoisan
Paxton Media Group
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