Maui Corner: Carmelit Patrocinio

 How long have you worked at Islands Hospice?

I've worked at Islands Hospice for two years and two months.

What do you do at Islands Hospice? Describe your role. 

My role at Islands hospice is to care for our patients and tend to their personal needs. I also report our patients' current conditions.

Describe a typical workday. 

Every day includes home/personal care for each patient, care facility visits and assisting patients with daily living activities. My goal is to make sure every patient is properly cared for and cherished at the end of each day.

What is your favorite part about working at Islands Hospice? 

My favorite part about working at Islands Hospice is taking care of the patients. Our supportive and awesome team also plays a big role in why I love working at Islands Hospice. Everyone is willing to lend a helping hand whenever it’s needed. Thank you so much to everyone who has helped me.

Do you have any special memories/stories from your time working here?

I have fond memories of taking care of patients who live on their own. I enjoy spending time and talking with them, so they don’t feel alone. I want to bring them joy, even if it’s only with a visit. When these patients pass away, it saddens me to walk past their homes as I remember them. I ensure that every patient I care for feels appreciated, and understands that they each have a special place in my heart.

What is your background?

I grew up in the Philippines. My parents were already in Hawaii, but my sister and I didn’t move until I was fourteen years old. I went to Maui High School and had many part-time jobs as a student. I have always worked hard from a young age. Now, I am married and have two children. I worked in the kitchen at Hale Makua for ten years and then went back to school to get my CNA certificate.

Is there anything about your background that inspired you to work at Islands Hospice/in hospice care? 

Before I worked at Islands Hospice I worked at Hale Makua as a CNA. That role helped to provide a passion and foundation in caring for elderly patients.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

I like to spend time alone by walking around my neighborhood. It is my favorite stress reliever. I also volunteer by helping to clean Christ the King Church on the weekends. I am also involved with Christ the King’s cancer ministry as well as Relay for Life.

Is there anything else you want to share with your fellow colleagues? 

First of all, thank you to everyone. I really appreciate each and every one of you who have helped me along this journey. I know we have a very difficult job, and I admire how we all work as one big team where nobody is left behind. I am so thankful to be a part of such a fun and great team. Thank you for this opportunity to share my experience.