A 27-Year Journey of Care at Homeward Bound
October 2, 2024
Interview with Jennifer Adamson
In May of 1997, fresh out of nursing school and having just passed her boards, Jennifer was searching for her first nursing job. While scanning the newspaper, she came across a job opening at Homeward Bound, which would soon become her first step into the world of nursing. Little did she know, it would also mark the beginning of a long and fulfilling career.
“I didn’t really know what kind of place Homeward Bound was or what I was getting into,” Jennifer recalls. “I had no nursing experience and had never worked with clients with disabilities before.”
But from a young age, Jennifer was destined for the profession. As a little girl, she loved playing nurse with her toy kit, and she fondly remembers her mother’s words: “One day, you’ll make a great nurse.” That prophecy came true when she interviewed for the position and got the job.
One early memory, in particular, still stands out. During her first attempt at giving a g-tube flush to a client, things didn’t go as smoothly as she had hoped. “The water squirted all over the ceiling! I was so embarrassed, but the client started laughing so hard that he had tears in his eyes. It’s one of those moments I’ll never forget, and it really bonded us as friends.”
Over the years, Jennifer grew in her role at Homeward Bound. In 2004, she transitioned from being a nurse to a Nurse Case Manager, working at the Brooklyn Park Woodland house. Now, 27 years later, she continues to be a dedicated member of the Homeward Bound family.
When asked what keeps her motivated after all these years, she reflects on the variety and complexity of her job. “What keeps me here is the range of nursing skills needed for the Nurse Case Manager role. I love learning new skills, honing my critical thinking, and staying up to date with my competencies. Homeward Bound has given me the opportunity to do just that.”
Her dedication to continuous learning extends beyond herself. She credits her coworkers, the staff, clients, and their families as key contributors to her growth. “I’m still learning new things from everyone I work with here. This job requires teamwork—everyone working together to ensure the health and well-being of our clients.”
For Jennifer, the relationships she builds with her clients and their families are one of the most rewarding aspects of her work. “I truly enjoy building a trusting rapport with the clients and their families. It’s incredibly fulfilling to work alongside doctors and specialists to ensure our clients receive the best care possible, allowing them to live the highest quality of life.”
As for her future, Jennifer is clear: “I plan to continue working as a Nurse Case Manager here at Homeward Bound, doing everything I can to provide the best care for the clients we serve.”
