My name is Holli, I’m a caregiver and medical technician at Autumn Leaves Cinco Ranch Community. The residents here welcomed me into their home 
April 3rd, 2014, and I haven’t looked back since. I still remember the day I came in for my interview, so nervous at the thought of not being able to work here. There was a woman sitting in the front living room of the community. She didn’t have to talk to me, but she did. This woman asked me my name, if I worked at Autumn Leaves, and encouraged me when I told her of my intentions to care for those who may no longer be able to care for themselves. Little did I know that this woman was the daughter of an amazing woman I would soon come to love as much as my own family.
I love to tell the story of my first experience with Autumn Leaves because the way this one woman made me feel is how I strive to make others feel on a daily basis here at Autumn Leaves. I believe that this is more than a business, these are lives and this is their home.
The woman’s mother turned out to be our resident, Alicia. Born in Cuba in September of 1924, Alicia couldn’t have known how many lives and hearts she would touch. She spent most of her life as a teacher, after which she worked as a Reservations Agent for Eastern Airlines. She is very proud of her work history, often treating us by announcing, “Hello, this is Alicia with Eastern Airlines, how can I help you?” Despite her busy life she still made time for her two daughters, Mimi and Mia.
From my time with this amazing woman, she’s taught me that chocolate is always best, always dance like no one is watching (we only live once), and sing if you like the music (making up your own lyrics is just part of the fun). Alicia lives with Alzheimer’s every single day. For her, it doesn’t go away at the end of the day, and other than her daughters, it’s the one thing she can’t forget…
She doesn’t remember my name, or even that we’ve met before (though I see her almost everyday). Yet, every time I’m able to assist Alicia, she is kind to me, the sort of kindness you give someone you’ve known for years. Though she has a disease the cannot be reversed, she still teaches me everyday how strong love really is. I’m honored and blessed to know this woman and to have become a part of her family through Autumn Leaves.
