As a caregiver, Esther Ozue forms strong bonds with her patients. Bonds so strong that she was able to sense something wrong with the slightest change.

During one routine visit, Ozue could immediately tell something was off with one of her patients. Without hesitation, she called 911, ensuring they received fast medical attention. This quick action made a critical difference, and after an extensive hospital stay, the client was able to return home.

After that heroic call, Ozue was given the title of 2026 National Caregiver of the Year by Right at Home North Dallas, where she has worked since 2024.

“I feel so honored and proud because caregiving is something I love doing,” Ozue said. “I love caring for my patients like they are my own parents. I love doing it. I just try to picture myself when I’m old, how will someone else care for me if I don’t give it back to the elderly the way I would like to be cared for.”

Ozue has always had the passion of being a caregiver, even at a young age. When her grandmother fell ill, Ozue took on the responsibility of caring for her. After her grandmother passed away, Ozue realized how much she enjoyed caring for others and decided to pursue it as a career, attending school to get her certified nurse aide license.

Ozue said caregiving is a great profession for those who have empathy for others because they’re able to place themselves in the shoes of their own patients.

“Caregiving is not just coming to work and getting your paycheck,” she said. “It’s a job you have to have passion for—you have to love your job. It requires compassion, patience and empathy. You have to be dedicated and strive to care for every individual with dignity, respect and kindness … by being compassionate, you have to understand the emotional and the physical needs of your clients … once you know everything [about your client] it brings out the best in you.”

The many relationships she has formed with her clients also applies to their families. Ozue loves seeing the smiles on their faces and takes joy in making her clients happy.

“When I’m not there, they’re looking forward to seeing me the next day,” she said. “I want to see they’re happy that I’m there to take care of them. And their families, too … they make me bring out the best in all I do because I know that I give value to every client I take care of.”

Her main advice for caregivers new to the field? Try to make your patients feel at home, be a companion for them and make them feel more relaxed.

“Bring in your best in whatever you do,” she said. “Care for them like your own parents, make them love you and look forward to seeing you.”