Still weeks away from finishing his Nursing Assistant Training at the International Institute of Minnesota, Diangha saved a life.
A client at the group home where he worked as a personal care aide (PCA) was choking on a hot dog and showing signs of distress. Diangha quickly noticed what was occurring and decided to perform the Heimlich maneuver, the first time he had ever done so.
At the time, he wasn’t certain if he was allowed to perform this maneuver as a PCA, but he chose to spring into action to save her life. His employer applauded the decision and deeply appreciated his quick, critical response.
“It made me feel like I’m really doing great,” Diangha said. “I achieved something — for me to practice that and come out with a positive outcome. I’m so proud of myself.”
As fate would have it, it was just a week prior to the incident that he learned the Heimlich maneuver in the Institute’s Nursing Assistant Training program. Referring his instructor, Diangha said, “It’s like she was chosen by God to teach us that lesson.”
Diangha began Nursing Assistant Training after a friend and former Institute student recommended the course.
“I want to try to upgrade myself from a PCA to a CNA,” Diangha explained. “I have made the decision to stick with the health field.”
He cited his grandfather as one of the reasons he was inspired to pursue this career path. In his home country of Cameroon, he and his family, usually the other grandkids, would take turns caring for their grandfather, determined to keep him “comfortable and happy” as he aged and needed constant assistance.
In addition to pursuing his CNA certification, Diangha loves sports and is studying to be a personal trainer and a sport diet professional. His Nursint Assistant Training instructor described Diangha as a “perfect student” who “has a lot of passion for his work and determination for success.” Now, she’s adding “hero” to his list of qualities.
In Minnesota, New Americans like Diangha comprise nearly 19% of PCAs and 30% of nursing assistants.¹ By 2026, PHI projects that the United States will need to fill 7.8 million direct care jobs.² Needless to say, the state of Minnesota is fortunate to have dedicated, compassionate individuals like Diangha who have chosen to serve in this field. They deserve not only our respect and gratitude but our investment as well.
² PHI; The “direct care” workforce includes nursing assistants, personal care aides and home health aides.