We’d like to share with you a bit about our caregiver, Zdena, and her very special client, Carol. After caregiving for ten years, Zdena Straka joined the Home Instead team in November of 2018. Carol was her very first client. That match was quite a success as the two have been together ever since, celebrating five years this past November.
Zdena moved here from the Czech Republic 33 years ago. She met her husband and was married five years later. Her educational background includes classes in biology, microbiology, psychology, nutrition and business. While working in the hospitality industry, Zdena found her passion in turtle rescuing, housing up to 70 turtles and tortoises in her home. Zdena worked to educate the public about turtles through a variety of shows sponsored by the Chicago Herpetological Society.
Her work with turtles came to an end after being diagnosed with an aggressive form of breast cancer. Zdena underwent treatment and it was during this time that she began studying alternative medicine and found a renewed interest in nutrition and the power of food. Despite the odds, Zdena beat cancer and continues to lead a healthy lifestyle today.
Zdena’s background, life experiences and her big heart has made her an excellent caregiver. When Zdena first met Carol, Carol was declining, and hospice was even suggested. But it wasn’t long before Carol’s health began to improve. Zdena credits her focus on nutrient-dense smoothies with Carol’s exceptional improvement. She has also kept Carol active and enjoying life. They enjoy baking and lunch dates. Where there was once nothing, Zdena and Carol planted a beautiful garden together in Carol’s yard.
Today, Carol is thriving. She will celebrate her 90th birthday in July. In her son Scott’s words, “Zdena has literally been a lifesaver for my mom. She has totally enhanced and changed my mom’s life. She cares and loves my mom and buys her Christmas and birthday gifts. She simply cares so much.”
The last picture is of Zdena and Carol at our Home Instead Holiday Party in December. They are even starting to dress alike! Thank you, Zdena, for “caring so much” and sharing your many talents with Carol, her family and all of us here at Home Instead.
