Support is more than helping a patient cut their hair or shave. For Remala, it’s helping people when life suddenly goes sideways.
Remala S. has been a Personal Support Worker (PSW) for over ten years. After working in developmental services, mental health, and addictions for many years, she wanted to explore different ways to support the community, challenge herself, and meet new people.
It’s no surprise that becoming a PSW came naturally. Over time, she has come to see her role as supporting not just patients, but everyone around them.
Remala works in Medicine with acute medicine patients. A journey of recovery with a patient can be anywhere from six days to two months. “Everyone who comes through our doors is given a diagnosis, but they are all people .”
Sometimes they return after six months, and they greet her saying “you cut my hair” or “you shaved me.” Those relationships have changed her life, often reflected in simple moments of gratitude from patients and families.
In her role, no two days are the same. She’s constantly learning and has never felt stagnant. Because of that, Remala feels she has grown as a person. “I get to walk alongside you,” she said, unable to define a single moment because there have been so many. “Celebrate your wins and see you thrive.”
Remala supports patients in a way that reflects who she is. “My faith and culture shape how I provide care,” she said, reflecting on her steadfast Christian faith and family. Her parents, who immigrated from Guyana, instilled strong family-oriented values that continue to guide her work.
That perspective shapes how she supports patients who may not have a support system of their own. And sometimes, she’s the only familiar face the patient sees in a day.
In some of the hardest moments, that presence matters most. Remala has sat beside patients, holding their hands, offering a listening ear, and engaging in meaningful and thoughtful conversations. She makes those short moments count for those who are struggling and need some comfort and kindness. “It’s not the amount of time spent with a patient it’s the quality of that time that matters. It leaves lasting impressions. “
For Remala, that’s a core part of what support means. It’s showing up with compassion and meeting people where they are. It’s often a thankless job, but Remala doesn’t do it for recognition; she does it because she loves helping people regain their independence and offer care and compassion throughout their healing journey.
“When I think of support,” she said, “I don’t think of just the patient. I think of their families. I think of coworkers. Being supportive is for everyone.”
PSWs provide hands-on support with daily care and comfort, building meaningful connections with patients while working alongside the care team to support safe, compassionate care.
May 19 is PSW Day — a day to recognize the essential care, empathy, and dedication our PSWs bring to patients every day. More than 70 PSWs work across more than five units at CMH. To all our PSWs: thank you.