Certified Live-in Care Professionals for Children with Cystic Fibrosis

Kaela is from Missouri and the youngest of seven siblings; surrounded by a loving extended family of nieces and nephews. Graduating at the top of her class in 2015 with a high school diploma, she has gained a range of experiences that qualify her as a care professional. As a devoted stay-at-home mother, she cared for her special needs son, Kaeden, who was born with Cranioectodermal Dysplasia—a rare condition requiring constant oxygen, specialized feeding methods, and regular visits to a host of medical specialists—until his untimely passing at 22 months. This challenging journey provided her with hands-on experience and organizational skills. Professionally, she served as a teacher’s aide at Boonslick State School, where she supported special needs children in achieving personal goals and fostering peer interactions. With certifications in first aid and CPR from the American Red Cross, Kaela’s passion for helping children thrive and her commitment to making a positive impact on families make her an exceptional candidate for any caregiving role. Kaela has been driving since she was 17 and is looking forward to supporting your family as early as March.

Bobby is a dedicated Behavior Technician from Baltimore, MD, with qualifications in special needs care. He has experience working with a wide range of diagnoses and is confident in supporting children with behavioral challenges, including eloping, hitting, and biting. Having grown up with a sibling with disabilities, Bobby has a deep, personal understanding of the unique challenges families may face in daily life. He is described as energetic, caring, and respectful, and is passionate about creating a safe and supportive environment for the children in his care. In his free time, Bobby enjoys music, hiking, playing lacrosse, cooking, and watching movies. With four years of daily driving experience, he is confident and responsible behind the wheel. Bobby is excited about the opportunity to support your family and is available to begin as early as March!

Stephanie is from Vineland, NJ and is a dedicated Childcare Professional and ABA Therapist with 12 years of experience and over 10,000 hours of hands-on childcare expertise. She has worked in diverse settings and is deeply committed to fostering children's social and emotional development. Known for her integrity and open communication, Stephanie brings confidence in her teaching methods, structured approach, and ability to create a positive learning environment. Outside of her professional work, she enjoys reading, music, attending church, and spending quality time with family and friends. She is eager to bring her expertise and compassionate care to your family starting in March.

Laurel is from Semmes, Alabama and is a dedicated Social Worker and Child Nutrition Coordinator with qualifications in both infant care and special needs care. With over 10,000 hours of experience, she has worked with children of all age groups. Known for her adaptability, coachability, and caring nature, Laurel also prides herself on being open-minded and attentive to the needs of others. In her spare time, she enjoys outdoor activities, solving puzzles, playing sports, and honing her skills as a barber. A cautious and responsible driver with 15 years of experience, Laurel is excited to begin supporting your family in April!

Rischaye (Schaye) is a passionate and dedicated Educator from Bryant, AR with over 8 years of experience in early childhood education and 2 years in special education. With a degree in Early Childhood Development from Arkansas State University, she has worked in various roles, from supporting daily living needs to providing specialized care as a behavior technician. Her unique combination of skills, including certifications in Reiki and Scrum, allows her to connect with children on multiple levels, ensuring a holistic approach to their development. Schaye’s ability to read emotions and body language enables her to address each child's needs with care and precision. In her free time, she enjoys practicing yoga, creating art, and sewing. With 11 years of driving experience. Schaye is confident driving with children and in all weather conditions. She is eager to bring her skills and experience to your family, helping foster a nurturing and peaceful environment as soon as April!

Emmy-Luisa (Emmy) is a 22-year-old Occupational Therapist with qualifications in both infant care and special needs care. She has experience working with individuals diagnosed with ADD/ADHD, anxiety, autism, developmental delays, and Down syndrome. Passionate about fostering independence, Emmy is dedicated to helping her clients reach their fullest potential through a holistic and individualized approach to therapy. Describing herself as patient, empathetic, and kind, Emmy values building meaningful connections with those she supports. Coming from a large and close-knit family, she enjoys spending quality time with her siblings and nieces. In her free time, she also enjoys scrapbooking, listening to music, sharing coffee outings with family and friends, and traveling. Currently living independently, Emmy is in the process of obtaining her driver’s license. She is excited about the opportunity to support your family and is available as soon as May!

Mae Belyn is a dedicated 23-year-old Educator with over 2,000 hours of childcare experience, specializing in infant and special needs care. She has experience working with children with autism and developmental delays and finds joy in helping all children reach essential milestones. For the past two years, Mae Belyn has been teaching in a Montessori kindergarten and coaching a girls’ handball team, nurturing both learning and teamwork. Known for her family-oriented, calm, and patient demeanor, she brings enthusiasm to her work with children. In her free time, Mae Belyn enjoys playing handball, watching sports, playing instruments, reading, cooking, and spending time outdoors. With three years of driving experience and her own car, she is confident and capable on the road in various environments. Mae Belyn is looking forward to supporting your family beginning in June 2025!

2nd Year Care Professional: Lena is a 25 year old Physical Therapist with a Bachelor's Degree. She is both infant care and special needs care qualified, and has over 3,000 hours of childcare experience! Lena worked in a pediatric physical therapy practice in Germany and has been supporting an Apex Host Family with 3 girls; the youngest with physical needs. She has worked with a variety of diagnoses. Lena describes herself as empathetic, open-minded, and friendly. In her free time, she enjoys going to the gym, doing yoga, going swimming, and spending time with friends and family. Lena is also passionate about riding horses! She has been driving for 8 years and has been driving here with her host children. Lena is excited for continued personal and professional growth with your family beginning in June 2025! Note from Apex: Lena will be due 15 days of vacation, 4 holidays, and $500 in education for a 12 month extension. Her program will be complete on May 31, 2026.

Leandra is a 21-year-old Speech Therapist with qualifications in special needs care. She has experience supporting children with ADHD, autism, ADD, Down syndrome, and developmental delays. Though she may be shy at first, Leandra is eager to build strong connections and make a positive impact. As one of six siblings, she values family and enjoys reading, traveling, cooking, watching hockey, and engaging in creative activities. Currently working on obtaining her driver's license, Leandra is excited and motivated to support your family starting in June!

Franka is a 23-year-old Nurse with qualifications in special needs care. Her diverse childcare background includes babysitting, supporting children in a kindergarten, and working in both a rehabilitation facility and a hospital. Known for her reliability, empathy, and strong communication skills, Franka excels at creating a supportive and nurturing environment. In her free time, she enjoys playing volleyball and sharing her skills as a youth volleyball coach. With six years of driving experience, Franka is confident navigating various weather conditions, including snow and ice. She is excited to bring her dedication and expertise to your family starting in June!

Alina, a 26-year-old Occupational Therapist, is qualified in special needs care with over 4,000 hours of childcare experience. Her expertise includes working with children diagnosed with ADD/ADHD, autism, blindness, Down syndrome, developmental delays, hearing loss, ODD, and sensory processing disorder (SPD). Alina is known for her patient, caring, and friendly nature. She previously participated in a traditional au pair program in Australia, where she gained valuable international experience. In her free time, Alina enjoys playing soccer, hiking, painting ceramics, and traveling. With 9 years of driving experience, she is confident transporting children and navigating diverse road conditions in different countries. Alina is excited to become a part of your family and is available to begin her placement in July!

Angelina is a Special Needs Care Provider with experience in diverse settings, including kindergartens, hospitals, and residential facilities for children and adults with special needs. She has worked with a wide range of diagnoses and is committed to providing compassionate and individualized support. Professionally, Angelina is highly motivated and ambitious, yet she brings warmth, patience, and empathy to her work with children. In her free time, she enjoys playing instruments, singing, cooking, staying active, and spending quality time with family and friends. With four years of daily driving experience, Angelina is confident navigating various road conditions, including snow and ice. She is excited to bring her skills and passion to your family, beginning in July!

Luca is a 22-year-old Special Needs Care Provider with experience supporting individuals across a variety of diagnoses. She has worked with both children and adults in diverse settings, including kindergartens, residential facilities, and as a babysitter. Known for her cheerful, calm, and patient demeanor, Luca is genuinely passionate about fostering positive connections and spending time with children. In her free time, Luca enjoys cooking, baking, jogging, meeting friends for coffee, and walking her dog. With four years of driving experience, she is confident navigating various environments. Beginning in August, Luca is excited to share her culture, provide exceptional care, and continue her professional growth with your family!

Levin is a 25-year-old Occupational Therapist with specialized qualifications in special needs care. With over 2,000 hours of childcare experience, he has worked with children diagnosed with ADD/ADHD, anxiety, autism, developmental delays, Down syndrome, epilepsy, and Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD). Growing up with a younger brother with ADHD, Levin has firsthand insight into the daily challenges families may face. He describes himself as easygoing, patient, and spontaneous. In his free time, Levin enjoys staying active through sports such as tennis, basketball, hockey, and soccer. He also appreciates game nights with friends and reading. With seven years of driving experience, including transporting children, he is confident behind the wheel. Levin is excited about the opportunity to support your family and looks forward to starting in August!

Hanna is a 22-year-old Educator with over 2,000 hours of childcare experience. She has worked with children with special needs, including ADHD, developmental delays, and Down syndrome. After completing her education in the summer of 2024, she began working full-time in a daycare, where she is responsible for a group of 15 children, fostering their development in a structured and supportive environment. Describing herself as open, positive, and calm, Hanna is dedicated to creating a nurturing and engaging atmosphere for the children in her care. In her free time, she enjoys spending time in nature, paddle boarding, traveling, and connecting with friends and family. With four years of daily driving experience, Hanna is confident navigating both city and highway traffic, including driving in snowy conditions. She is eager to transition into a one-on-one care setting to expand her experience and is available to join your family beginning in August!