The Power of Empathy

Nustrat J., Vice President of the Benjamin N. Cardozo High School chapter, shares how she makes every senior home visit special and has learned empathy through her involvement with GlamourGals.

Through my experience with GlamourGals, I've tried to make seniors feel extra special in our community. Whenever we collect the "My Dear Friend" cards, I hand-deliver them on the exact holiday, adding jokes tailored to each senior's sense of humor. I visit all ten floors at Ozanam, making sure to address letters to specific seniors I know well, strengthening our bonds. During our manicure sessions, I ensure everyone feels included by bringing seniors down to the Hall of Stars from their respective floors and back up when we're done. To make their time even more enjoyable, I've started making little paper fans to help dry their nails faster and giving gentle hand massages after manicures, which they love. Their gratitude, expressed through hugs and cheek kisses, makes my week!

Knowing how much they enjoy singing, I organize karaoke sessions where everyone joins in, starting with our resident singer, Dalma, on the fifth floor. I have great chats with seniors, like Blanche about our favorite James Patterson books and spend extra time on the second floor with Jane and her husband, talking about his health. Jane jokes that she'll bring him down for a manicure someday. Vilma and I turn makeovers into photoshoots, capturing her nails from every angle. While my role in GlamourGals has helped me grow into a more patient, organized, and bolder person, it has most importantly made me more empathetic. Empathy brings perspective, often lacking in our fast-paced NYC life. Through this journey, I've learned that with a little perspective, we can better understand and connect with others, transforming both their lives and ours.

Nusrat handing out My Dear Friend cards to senior residents at Ozanam Nursing Home.