Caring for Grandfather as a Teen Inspired Thiea’s Journey
Home Instead® Care Professional of the Month Salathiel “Thiea” Henley will never forget her late grandfather. Captured in her heart are memories of his warm-yet-vulnerable presence, vivid images that inspire Thiea each day when she opens a client’s door to start her shift on behalf of Home Instead of Clearwater, Florida.
“I began my caregiving journey at the age of 15 when I served as a family caregiver for my grandfather during his declining health,” Thiea recalled. “Caring for my grandfather at my young age was a profoundly meaningful experience that shaped my perspective on compassion and responsibility. Stepping forward to help him allowed me to form a deep bond with my grandfather during a vulnerable time in his life, fostering a sense of purpose and fulfillment. This early exposure to caregiving ignited my passion for helping others and instilled in me the belief that every small act of kindness can make a significant difference in someone’s life.”
The experience has led Thiea down a path to an empathetic and compassionate career. Before joining owner Julie Castle’s award-winning Home Instead franchise that serves Pinellas County, Thiea previously worked for another Home Instead franchise while living in Winter Park, Florida. Referring to her previous Home Instead employer, Thiea said: “I truly enjoyed my experience there. This positive experience motivated me to seek employment with a Home Instead franchise again after relocating to St. Petersburg.”
Explaining her other employment stops, Thiea said: “I previously had gained valuable experience working in both group homes and in-home settings. Additionally, I spent five years as an elementary school teacher in the Exceptional Student Education program, where I supported children with learning disabilities and behavioral challenges.” Home Instead Director of Care Professional Services JC Crady revealed Thiea’s Care Pro of the Month honor. JC said, “Thiea displays Home Instead’s guiding principles of ‘Build Trust, Take the Lead and Share Your Heart.’ Home Instead’s mission is to enhance the lives of aging adults and their families, and to pioneer greater professionalism within care work. That’s why we've created a care experience that’s based on human touch, transparency and compassion. We’re so glad Thiea is a member of our team and represents the Home Instead spirit so well.”
Discussing her position as a Home Instead Care Pro, Thiea offered: “I find immense joy in building meaningful connections with my clients, whom I genuinely consider my family. Each day offers the opportunity to make a positive impact on their lives, whether it’s through companionship, assistance with daily activities or simply sharing a warm conversation. The rewarding nature of this work, combined with the ability to support individuals in their homes, reinforces my dedication to providing compassionate care and enhancing their quality of life.” Thiea added: “I have the privilege of working with a remarkable woman in her 30s who is a quadriplegic. Assisting her with her daily activities allows her to maintain a fulfilling life, enabling her to go to work and enjoy precious moments with family and friends. I truly cherish her incredible sense of humor. On my first day, as she described her physical limitations, she playfully remarked about her arms, saying, ‘They’re just there for decoration… like ornaments.’ Her witty perspective not only made me laugh but also highlighted her resilience and positivity, making each day working together a joy.”
For Thiea, touching lives impacts her soul, whether she is providing physical help such as light housekeeping, meal preparation, medication reminders or personal care or if she is offering emotional support. Thiea is an important part of the Pinellas County franchise, a member of a network comprised of Home Instead, Inc. and its parent company, Honor. With the world’s largest home-care network and the most advanced care platform, Honor and Home Instead are revolutionizing care for older adults, their families and Care Pros.
All Home Instead Care Professionals are screened, trained and insured. For inquiries about employment, please call (727) 799-1400 or visit our website.
