The Caregiving Journey: Jody Huenke’s Story

At Touching Hearts at Home, we celebrate the caregivers who bring compassion, dedication, and heart into everything they do. This month, we are proud to spotlight Jody Huenke, a devoted Care Partner whose journey into caregiving has been both deeply personal and powerfully impactful.

Though Jody officially joined our Touching Hearts family just five months ago, her experience as a caregiver spans a lifetime. Her story is a meaningful reminder of why home care matters—because behind every visit is someone who shows up, not just with skill, but with soul.

A Lifelong Caregiver Turned Full-Time Advocate

Jody has worn the caregiver hat for much of her life, but it was in August 2024 that her journey took a deeper turn. After her previous job was eliminated, she stepped into a full-time role as the caregiver for her in-laws—who were both determined to need 24-hour care.

“I’ve been a caregiver almost my whole life, but when my in-laws needed help, I was all in,” Jody says. “It wasn’t just about stepping in—it was about stepping up.”

Her transition into professional caregiving with Touching Hearts was a natural fit. It wasn’t a career pivot—it was a continuation of a calling.

Creating Calm in the Storm

When asked to share a moment that left a lasting impact, Jody describes a difficult yet powerful experience that highlights her ability to de-escalate and support both clients and their families.

“There was a very tense moment between a mother and her son. Emotions were high, and it was becoming toxic. I was able to step in, calm the mom, and help the son understand that her needs had changed—and that it was now about creating new routines for her, not holding onto what worked for him in the past.”

This ability to bring calm, clarity, and compassion to challenging moments is what sets Jody apart. It’s not just about providing care—it’s about preserving dignity and nurturing understanding.

Lessons That Go Beyond the Job

In her time with Touching Hearts, Jody has observed something that many families eventually realize: caregiving isn’t something everyone is equipped to take on—and that’s okay.

“Not everyone can handle it, and that’s why people like me are needed. It takes a special kind of patience and heart to treat someone’s loved one as if they were your own. That’s a gift—and one that families genuinely cherish.”

It’s this mindset that Jody brings into every home: care that’s not only personalized, but deeply respectful.

The Building Blocks of Trust

When it comes to earning the trust of her clients, Jody believes it starts with reliability, but it grows through empathy and communication.

“Being transparent, listening, acknowledging their feelings—even their frustrations—that’s how you build a connection. You respect their routines, their boundaries, and their stories.”

She makes it a point to remember the little things: favorite meals, songs, or even a funny story shared in passing. Those small details build bridges to trust and create lasting bonds.

Challenges That Inspire Creative Care

One of the greatest challenges Jody faces in her work is keeping clients engaged and mentally stimulated—especially when energy or memory is limited. But she doesn’t let that stop her.

“I always try to find something that used to light them up. Whether it’s music, sports, games, or books—I use those to bring them joy again. Everyone has something they’ve loved. Sometimes it just takes a little digging to find it.”

Caregiving, From Both Sides

What makes Jody’s perspective so unique is that she’s not just a caregiver—she’s also someone who’s been on the other side, helping to arrange care for her own family.

“I’ve had to hire care before. I know how overwhelming and emotional that can be. That dual experience gives me insight that I use every day—not just with clients, but with their families. It’s helped me approach every relationship with even more kindness and grace.”

This insight has impacted her deeply, shaping how she views aging and society’s treatment of older adults.

“I’ve realized how unfairly seniors can be treated—ignored, dismissed. It’s heartbreaking. That’s why I work so hard to show them love and enrich their lives in every way I can.”

Advice for Future Caregivers

For those considering a career in home care, Jody offers this guidance:

“Find a company that actually manages their clients’ care—not just one that’s there to get paid. Work somewhere that values both the caregivers and the clients. You’ll never regret being part of something that truly makes a difference.”

A Message on the Power of Home Care

Jody’s belief in home care is unwavering—and deeply personal.

“We don’t just support our clients. We offer relief to family caregivers who don’t know where to turn. The peace of mind we give—there’s nothing like it. It’s a service that goes beyond care… it’s love in action.”

At Touching Hearts at Home, we’re honored to have caregivers like Jody who bring wisdom, empathy, and unwavering commitment to every home they step into. Her story is a powerful reminder that caregiving is not just about showing up—it’s about showing heart.