A New Granddaughter… Attending College… HHAs Share What They Were Most Grateful For in 2024

Toward the end of last year, as part of our monthly raffle, we asked Home Health Aide team members: “What’s one thing you’re most grateful for in 2024?”

We received so many wonderful responses – over 340, in fact! Our HHAs shared their gratitude for their health and expressed deep appreciation for life, often highlighting the joy brought to them by their family members, friends and clients who made their year special.

Here are just a few of the many heartfelt responses we received…

Maria Cubbage: “One thing I’m grateful for is my new granddaughter!”

Sarah Featherstone: “I’m thankful for the breath I take and the life I have, and for waking up every day to my family, alive and well, having food and a roof over our heads!”

Natasha Kalis: “I’m grateful for my kids and our health. I also get to go to a job I love every day and connect with such wonderful people in my community.”

José Mateo: “I’m deeply grateful for the people in my life who have been there through it all—family, friends, and those unexpected connections that left a mark. Their kindness, support, and simple presence have made tough days easier and good days even brighter.”

Brianna Seda: “I’m grateful for my wonderful grandmother. She has been an incredible source of inspiration and strength throughout my life.”

Sonia Soto: “I am thankful because I’m able to attend college for the first time in my life—not just me, but my oldest son, too!”

Jasmin Vega: “I am grateful this year for new friends, my health, the opportunities that life gives you, and the resilience to get through difficult times that have made me grow as a person.”

Frances Williams: “One thing I’m grateful for is growth. I’ve worked with VNS Health for 10 years! I’ve adapted to everything over the years: new patients and old patients. I helped them to feel better through my shifts. Sometimes, I could feel the client’s mood shift in a positive direction as the morning became afternoon. It made me happy knowing I was doing a good job of reassuring them throughout the day.”

Violetta Yasinskya: “I am especially thankful for the opportunity to make a difference in my clients’ lives as a home health aide. Being able to help someone feel cared for and supported during challenging times is deeply rewarding. I’m also grateful for my health, my family, and the small, meaningful moments I get to share with those I care for.”

Lai Fong Lam: “Thanks to my parents for bringing me into a beautiful world.”