Jenn Craigue
Since I developed a disability, I have been struggling to figure out where I fit in. It hit me one night that I will always fit in with DCA because I believe in the mission. And the DCA gives me a way to stay involved with direct care work. I’m also excited to have been elected as vice chair of the DCA’s board of directors. My primary mission is to get more direct care workers involved with the board, to get their input and to give them a way to develop their leadership skills.
Just because I can no longer work as a direct care worker doesn’t mean that the problems my peers face – problems I know well since I used to deal with myself – have gone away. I believe with all my heart that both direct care workers and the people they serve will benefit immensely if the government recognizes and respects the importance of direct care work. The health care system would fall apart without us.
That’s why I wrote this poem.
My Lighthouse
Lighthouses are majestic beacons of hope, comfort and a reminder of where you belong.
I was a direct care worker for 10 wonderful years. It was my calling, what I was meant to be. My advocacy work was my passion and strength, and gave me my energy to be the best direct care worker I could . I was finally making a difference in my own little world.
Then I was struck with several illnesses that forced me out of work…
What will I do now? Who am I supposed to be? I feel broken. I am lost.
In the horizon I saw my lighthouse. Calling to me, shining that brilliant light, showing me the way to come home.
I may not be able to do the work of a direct care worker anymore, but I can still help my peers. While they pour their hearts and souls into their work, I will be on the frontline, fighting for their right to dignity, a livable wage, and benefits.
I found my voice again. I do not feel broken anymore.
Why? Because of my beautiful lighthouse, the Direct Care Alliance.
Jennifer Craigue
Vice chair, board of directors
Direct Care Alliance
Jenn, congratulations on your Vice Chair election. I look forward to supporting you with your goals. This poem is very beautiful.
Thank you Leonila. I guess my daughter and I are alike. I am very excited about being vice chair. The DCA has done so much already, and I am so proud that it has all been aligned with our mission. This is a very exciting time for the DCA and I love being a part of it.