Marissa Dayrit: From Social Worker to Caregiver
I grew up in a small village or “barrio” in the Philippines, where the elderly were the heart and soul of our community. As a child, I spent countless afternoons sitting with them, listening to their stories, and learning from their wisdom. They weren’t just old people to me; they were caretakers, storytellers, and the foundation of my village. They had a way of making me feel loved, valued, and cared for, and I never forgot the warmth and guidance they offered.
After finishing college, I became a public social worker in the Philippines, doing my best to advocate for those who needed help the most. It was fulfilling work, and I was proud of the difference I was making. But when I moved to the United States to find new opportunities, I found myself feeling lost. The work I had done back home didn’t seem to translate, and I was looking for something that could give me a sense of purpose again.
It wasn’t until a friend suggested I try caregiving that I even considered it. At first, I wasn’t sure if it was the right fit for me, but something about the idea of taking care of the elderly resonated with me. I realized that, in a way, it reminded me of the elders in my hometown who had cared for me when I was younger. I took the leap and started working as a caregiver.
The moment I began, something clicked. The elderly people I worked with felt familiar. Their stories, their needs, their vulnerability — it all brought me back to those afternoons spent with the elders in my hometown. I found myself offering them the same love, respect, and care I had received as a child. It was more than just a job; it felt like I was honoring the very people who had given me so much.
Over time, I realized that I had found a new passion. Caring for others wasn’t just a way to make a living; it was a way for me to give back, to offer the same warmth and attention I had been given. The bond I built with my patients, the joy I felt in seeing them smile, the sense of fulfillment from knowing I was making their lives better — it all reminded me of the care my elders in my village had shown me.
Now, every day as a caregiver, I carry with me the lessons and love I received from the elders in my village. I feel honored to care for others, just as they once cared for me. And in doing so, I’ve found my true calling, one that connects me to my roots and brings me peace.
In 2015, I took a leap of faith and founded MD’s Homecare Professionals, with the goal of providing personalized, heartfelt care to the elderly in their own homes. It wasn’t easy at first. I had to learn the ins and outs of business, handle the legalities, and figure out how to build a team that shared my vision and compassion. But slowly, with hard work and determination, my dream began to take shape.
The foundation of my business was built on the same principles that shaped my childhood: respect for the vulnerable, deep empathy, and a commitment to creating a safe, loving environment for those who need it most. My team grew, and together, we became a family dedicated to caring for others, just as I had been cared for.
Now, every day, as I watch my business thrive, I am reminded of the elders back home who taught me the true meaning of care. I’m proud that I’ve created something that reflects that same love and respect. My work as a caregiver has transformed into something much bigger — a business that serves both clients and caregivers, making a real difference in the lives of elderly individuals and their families.
Starting MD’s Homecare Professionals wasn’t just about creating a business. It was about honoring the care and love that shaped me, and passing it forward to the next generation. And every day, as I see my team providing the same compassionate care to others, I know that I’m doing exactly what I was meant to do.