RIVER CITY SIX – CAROL WAIT
Meet Carol Wait, registered nurse, certified dementia practitioner, and executive director of memory care at Ovation Heartwood Preserve (www.ovationbyavamere.com/omaha-nebraska).
Tell us a little about your business. – Ovation is a premier upscale senior living community in Omaha that has a full continuum of care—independent living, assisted living, and memory support. It is an amazing and dynamic community; unlike anything Omaha has ever seen.
How did you get started in the business? – I wanted to be a nurse from an early age. I loved exploring the world through the lens of science. I graduated in 1996 from nursing school in Colorado. My first job was working in home health as a nurse. I cared for all age groups with a range of different diagnosis. I quickly learned that I loved working with orthopedic clients. In 2008, I moved to Omaha and got a job at Nebraska Medicine on the orthopedic floor. I transferred to Bellevue Medical to assist with opening the new hospital. In 2014, I accepted a position at an assisted living/memory care community as the director of nursing. I have continued in this field ever since.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? – COVID changed how we do business and how we interact and care for others. Watching our seniors face this pandemic and not seeing their loved ones has been the most difficult to overcome.
Tell us a little about your family. – I am married to my fabulous husband James, and we have four children and two grandchildren who are the loves of my life. I have a son living in Colorado and a son that is joining the Marines in October. We are very proud of his patriotism. I also can’t forget our fur children, Leia and Chewy.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? – I love to spend time with my dogs, and the splash pad with my grandchildren is a summer staple for me! I also enjoy to bake and decorate cakes for family and friends.
Who inspires you? – Much of my inspiration comes from John Maxwell. I have read many of his books and listened to his podcasts. Being the best leader and person I can for my team is something I strive for.
What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? – “I didn’t get everything done in one day either.” – God
If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? – Caring or compassionate.
If you could have a super power, what would it be? – I would love to speak and understand all languages.
Which talent would you most like to have? – Singing. I am terrible.
If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? – Travel blogger. I am a foodie, so I’d love to travel the world and try new foods.
What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? – Alzheimer’s Association. I work with dementia residents daily. I see the struggles that both the person and their families experience. The Association’s education and assistance to all caregivers is exceptional.
What is your favorite movie? – The Holiday.
What is your favorite TV show? – Any type of cooking show!
What is your favorite local restaurant? – Wilson & Washburn. You must try their fish and chips!
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? – (402) 999-7900; carol.wait@ovationbyavamere.com; www.ovationbyavamere.com/omaha-nebraska.