What was it about this place that was so special to me?
- jessetorres358
- Mar 15, 2024
- 3 min read
Updated: May 14
Now and forever!!!!
At 21, it was understood that this was my first job. I earned my CNA certificate right after finishing high school, believing it to be a straightforward career with minimal educational demands. My mom heard from a friend that they were seeking help, which is how I discovered this institution. I recall seeing nurses walking with the residents by the pond, and I was instantly captivated by the place.
This picture of the man in blue brings tears to my eyes. I deeply loved him and his spouse. I'm serious when I say she appeared in a dream and kissed me in front of my daughters. I saw her ascend. I wasn't scared at all. The dream was very peaceful. I frequently sought advice from the man in blue. Coming out to them as a gay man was extremely challenging back then. Yet, he treated me like one of his own children or grandchildren, correcting me when I made mistakes.
He struggled with alcoholism, and many of my colleagues disliked him due to his harsh demeanor. Nonetheless, I never saw him as cruel. Ultimately, I grew very fond of him. When my father passed away, I was overwhelmed with grief and didn't want to experience that pain again. Therefore, he was the last resident I looked after. My angel, you are profoundly missed. "RIP"
Every Friday, the residents enjoyed Happy Hour. Despite some being quite intoxicated, they were simply trying to savor life. None of them lost their composure or started any physical fights. They simply laughed and socialized.
Halloween is celebrated annually on October 31. People used to find it amusing when we wore silly costumes. I enjoy dressing up, but I wasn't fond of the attention I got when competing with my coworkers. Even though I won, I decided to give the prize to a coworker. In my opinion, she looked amazing as Aunt Jemima.
This brings back memories of when I would sit and chat with the other CNA ladies. It saddens me deeply to know that nearly all the women I worked with have passed away. They were truly a blessing in my life; if you encounter any older women, cherish the time you have with them because it won't last forever.
I never considered the future. At twenty-one, when I was in my prime, I would just go out and party. I remember a time when all the women I worked with pursued me because I was spending money recklessly. I believed each woman was unique and very special. I got along with all of them, especially Momma Soli. I hope she gets to "rip." I miss calling you, and I love you.
One of my favorite characters in Camelot was this man. He passed away swiftly. In the end, he developed fluid in his lungs as a result of Alzheimer's. I cared for him until his death, and I still miss him deeply. I felt a connection with him because, although I was unaware that earlier generations were also LGBTQ, he was gay. I didn't know about the LGBTQ riots in the 1960s and 1980s. It took years before I even understood what LGBTQ meant.
I think he knew I was gay at that time, even though I never told him, because he expressed a desire to marry me. I suspect that in his younger years, he might have dressed as a woman, as I once found a photo of a very beautiful woman with striking blue eyes. Upon closer inspection, I realized it was him. He passed away alone and unmarried, having no partner. Even though I was there on the day he died, it wasn't the same. I always wanted to know more about his past, but I never learned much. I still miss him to this day. "Rip"
I'll share some photos I captured of this beautiful place where I once loved working. I'm thankful to Camelot for allowing me to work there and for the chance to meet so many wonderful people who are no longer with us. After nearly a decade, I eventually moved on to a new job. I was ready for the change, making the decision straightforward. Nonetheless, as I reflect on the past, I thank God for being able to have such an incredible experience in my 20s.
To all the wonderful individuals I had the privilege of working with during this time, I promise to always remember each of you and will keep shining wherever you are. This story is dedicated to all of you. My feelings are overwhelming!
Story by Britney J Torres
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