I am Nathalie Tumanday. I graduated in 2018 as a caregiver from Lifeline. I came to Saskatoon, Canada in 2019. My first employer was my aunt, and I worked for her for two years, looking after her children as a childcare provider. Here in Canada, when you complete a 24-month contract with your employer, you can apply for permanent residence, and the good thing is that you can include your whole family. I have a son back home, and I left him when he was 2 years and 5 months old. I felt very downcast when I left my son that day, and he was sleeping that night.

Luckily, I have parents who genuinely care for my son. Time flies—my son is now 6 years old, and I really miss him.

After my contract with my aunt, I moved to Vancouver, Canada. With the help of a Filipino-Canadian consultant, I found Indian employers who are very kind and humble people. I worked with them as an elderly caregiver. They are not bedridden yet—they are still active and just want a companion in their house. I am so grateful because they treat me like a family member. When they go on vacation, they also take me with them. They also promised that when my permanent residence comes, they will help and support me in starting a new chapter of life with my son in the future.

I am beyond grateful for all the creative and engaging lessons you have taught. I truly wish I had a teacher like you, who inspired a passion for learning. My Lifeline family, from the bottom of my heart—thank you.