Meet Catherine Azuka: COHME Home Health Aide

By Katerina Yang

Catherine Azuka is from Nigeria and moved to the U.S. in 2016. She has been working with COHME for over five years and considers it her family. Through growing with the organization, she has gained a deeper understanding of its mission and culture. In her free time, she loves to go shopping. She is also an excellent chef who enjoys cooking and has catered events such as engagements.

Let’s get to know a little more about Catherine:

What inspired you to enter this field?

Before COHME, I wanted to be a medical doctor. However, I did not end up studying medicine. I earned my bachelor’s degree in Environmental Sciences back home. When I came to the U.S., I considered nursing, but I was not comfortable with administering injections, so I decided to move into healthcare, driven by my passion for science and humanity.

What’s it like working as a home health aide?

Working as a home health aide is very hands on and detail oriented. I prepared quality meals for my clients, cleaned their apartments, made sure the trash was taken out, and ensured every corner was clean before my shift ended.

What do you enjoy about working with older adults?

I enjoy working with older adults because I like helping people, especially those who may not have family support. I care for my clients the same way I care for my mother, with patience and respect. I take time to learn about each client’s lifestyle and interests, whether that is music, games, or conversation, and I encourage activities that bring them happiness. I also enjoy preparing nutritious meals and creating a clean, comfortable environment where they feel cared for.

What are some challenges you've faced?

One challenge I have faced is when I put in a lot of effort but did not receive appreciation. At first, this made me feel sad, but I learned to be more understanding. I learned to observe my clients and give them the time and space they need to process negative emotions. Sometimes the best approach is to step back rather than engage immediately. After giving them space and returning later, I often found that they felt better.

How have your career goals evolved?

My career goals have evolved toward creating my own Non-Governmental Organization. I care deeply about humanity and want to help more people on a larger scale. I enjoy educating others, giving speeches, and sharing knowledge. My husband, who is a professor, has been very supportive of this goal. Back home, I also gained experience training people on health-related topics, which reinforced my vision of establishing my own NGO as my ultimate life goal.

Has this work changed you?

Yes. This work has taught me patience, to love more, and to be even more passionate about helping people.

How do you balance work and life?

I balance work and life by doing things that make me happy and help me relax. I enjoy shopping and cooking, which bring me joy and calm. I also make time for my family, such as weekend trips, and I love traveling to new places and exploring different cultures.

What’s been your biggest reward?

My biggest reward is seeing people happy and feeling comfortable around me. It brings me joy.