Best of All – Sylvia

When you walk into the Playhouse and observe Games with Friends or Project Pulse, you might think Sylvia is a volunteer. She effortlessly builds connections and converses with those around her. However, to your surprise, you will find out she is the caregiver for our friend Troy, whom she accompanies at each program he attends! Though her sole focus is caring for Troy, she goes above and beyond to make everyone feel loved and welcomed at the Playhouse. She, too, builds relationships with each participant, volunteer, and family member. For those reasons and many more, we selected Sylvia as this month’s “Best of All”.

Tell us about yourself!

I work as a paraprofessional at the Murray Ridge School which does instruction for students with various disabilities. I have a student assigned to me that I do one-on-one instruction. It is in Elyria and serves students throughout Lorain County. In my spare time, I love reading, shopping, and lounging at home. Some of my favorite foods would be anything that involves chips!

You were not always working in the helping/caregiving/education field. What was your previous job and what made you switch to this current profession?

I served nine years in the Air Force Reserves. I worked as a Medical Laboratory Technician for over 30 years in various hospitals and doctor’s offices. I also worked as a lab tech at the Safeway ice cream plant when my husband and I lived in Denver, Colorado. I began my work with those with special needs after I was downsized from my last job in a doctor’s office, and because of a suggestion from a friend.

How did you meet Troy and his family, and how long have you been working alongside Troy?

I met Troy and his family from his previous provider that I worked with at Murray Ridge. I have worked with Troy since October 2018.

What is your favorite aspect about Troy?

He has such an upbeat and pleasant personality. It is impossible to be sad when you are in his presence!

What are some of the things you do with Troy?

Troy and I go swimming twice a week, we attend programs at GiGi’s Playhouse like Games with Friends, Project Pulse, and Fantastic Friends. Every Saturday we go bowling! We also go to the movies, out to eat, and on some occasions, we attend events at my church.

What is your favorite thing to do with Troy?

My favorite thing to do with Troy is watching him interact and build friendships with others!

Not only do you work at your school, but you also help Troy. What motivates you to serve in this capacity 6 days a week?

I get so excited and motivated when I see the little things that a lot of people overlook, but are really the individual promoting their independence!

Do you have a motto that you live by? If so, what is it?

It is nice to be important but it is more important to be nice.

What life lesson have you learned by spending time with Troy each week?

NEVER judge a book by its cover!

Are there any challenges doing the work that you do?

Sometimes it is hard watching people who do not understand people with special needs.

What are the benefits of being a caregiver for a family and their loved one?

The benefits of working with a family and their loved one, to me, is an internal feeling of worth and seeing the appreciation that comes from them.

What would you say to a family member looking to provide a caregiver for their loved one?

Trust the process, do not give up. It is okay to seek assistance and help from others!

In your experience, why are families hesitant to provide a caregiver for their loved one?

People are often hesitant to provide caregivers out of fear. They don’t know if they can trust the individual, which is understandable because we are taking care of their loved one!

How has GiGi’s impacted Troy’s life?

Troy absolutely looks forward to coming to GiGi’s. He loves spending time with his friends at Project Pulse, Games with Friends, and even dancing at the Fantastic Friends NYE party!

How has GiGi’s impacted YOUR life?

I greatly enjoy coming to GiGi’s. I am so glad I have been introduced to everyone there. It is a place of warmth and acceptance for everyone who comes in, and you always leave with such a feeling of closeness and friendship to all you encounter.

What’s one piece of advice you’d give to someone who’s discerning if they should enter the helping/caregiving field?

Although this work is not for everyone, if you do it, you will be consumed with a desire to do more. The feeling of knowing you are making a difference for someone is indescribable.

Sylvia, we have loved getting to witness your selflessness. In all that you do, we know you pour your whole heart into caring for others. What a representation of genuine authenticity, love, and friendship you display. Troy is so lucky to have you in his life, and so are we here at GiGi’s Playhouse!