Ever since I can remember I have loved working with seniors. In fact, this is the main reason I became a nurse. At the age of 13 I was fortunate to have been offered an opportunity to volunteer as a candy striper at a hospital. I recall, as I passed out mail and flowers, the countless stories that patients shared with me. From that time on I knew I wanted to become a nurse, and in particular to work with seniors.

 

Shortly after graduating high school my first experience as a nurse was as a CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant.) That experience confirmed that I was meant to become a nurse, albeit, it was one of the most difficult jobs I ever had. It was a physical and challenging job, but I loved it. After saving enough money for nursing school I was able to attend Oklahoma State University.

 

Within two weeks after graduation I was on the road, car packed with everything I owned, including "Chester" my beloved Pug. Knowing that I wanted to work with seniors, Florida and Arizona immediately came to mind, and given the fact I hate bugs and humidity I went with Arizona.

 

Since moving to Arizona in 1995 I have worked in Skilled Nursing Facilities, been a field and inpatient nurse with hospice, and owned and operated several assisted living group homes. In 2007 I joined Centrix Health Resources as a hospice team manager before being promoted to Director of Clinical Services in 2010. Although I loved what I did, I wanted to work closer with seniors. Consequently, in 2014 I was given an opportunity to work with DOVES as the Director of Nursing and Administrator.

 

Today I could not be happier. I have an amazing team, work with seniors daily, married to the love of my life, and have five happy and healthy children.

 

 

Regards,

 

Audrey Shirif