A New Port Richey woman is in the running to become caregiver of the year for one of the largest senior care companies in the country. She has already been named caregiver of the year for the southeast region for Home Instead Senior Care.      

  • Christine Collins nominated for national caregiver award
  • She says she enjoys helping seniors
  • Collins already won caregiver of the year for Southeast region

Once a week Christine Collins helps 95-year-old Nancy Beckmann with her daily tasks.

"I always say that's it's my Irish heritage that allows me to treat my clients base as if they are my mom and my aunts," Collins said.

That care, which some people are easily frustrated doing, Christine tackles with ease. She spent 40 years in the banking industry. Then, after being in New York city during 9/11, she decided she needed a change. After coming to Florida and caring for her aging mother, she discovered her passion for caregiving.

Christine said one of her favorite parts about working with seniors is developing relationships with each and every one of her clients.

"When Nancy will sit and tell me, ‘And I like having you,’ that makes it for me," Collins said.

And the relationship means just as much to her clients. Nancy, who lives alone and has family in the northeast, cherishes Christine's visits.

"She's wonderful. I look forward to having her come. Because she sits and tells me what she's done for the week and she makes it interesting. It gets my mind off my problems,” Beckmann said.

Christine, who also lives alone, equally cherishes the time and plans to continue helping seniors as long as she can.

"It gives me plenty to do. Something to look forward to. And being able to help is wonderful," she said.

Christine will be traveling to Omaha, Nebraska the last weekend in April to find out if she has won the national award. She is one of seven people up for that honor.