September Town Hospice Hero

Sometimes, all it takes is a simple joke to change the trajectory of someone’s day. For Islands Hospice CNA, Edmar Barit, lighthearted interactions make his patient visits meaningful and memorable. “I make it a point to put a smile on my patient’s face with my silly jokes and crazy antics,” Edmar explained. “A simple thank you from my patient and their families after every visit is more than enough to make this job fulfilling.”

Edmar came to Hawaii from the Philippines in 2007. He graduated from Waipahu High School and completed the CNA class at Healthcare School of Hawaii. Prior to joining Islands Hospice, Edmar worked for an agency, then at a nursing/skilled facility where he met several Islands Hospice employees.

Edmar developed an interest in hospice care after his late grandfather fell ill and used hospice services. Although it was an extremely difficult time for his family, Edmar was inspired to learn how to provide the same compassionate care for others that his grandfather received.

For nearly two and a half years, Edmar has been working out of the town office, sipping his coffee as he makes phone calls to patients, families, co-workers and to different facilities before hopping in his car. The rest of his shift is spent picking up supplies and providing care to our patients.

On his days off, Edmar enjoys cooking and experimenting with different recipes. His advice to his fellow coworkers is to remain optimistic, regardless of the day. “Some days are better than the others. Always remember that we are making a huge impact in our patients’ and their families’ lives.”