We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Deja Alexandrino . We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Deja below.

Deja, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Was there a defining moment in your professional career? A moment that changed the trajectory of your career?

There were two major moments that changed the trajectory of my professional career. The first one was during the years of 2001 to 2002, I was employed as an RN in the Amazon Rainforest through a contract facilitated by the Brazilian Federal Government when my so American boyfriend proposed, igniting the initiation of our journey involving a fiancee visa and the complexities of immigration. The path we embarked upon required an artful combination of patience and persistence.

Despite having a stable career and being surrounded by family and friends in my native country, I have taken a leap of faith, leaving behind all that is familiar and comfortable to follow my heart. With the help of a Canadian acquaintance and my neighbor Mary, a Navy Nurse veteran, I gathered all the necessary documents and applied to a program called Welcome Center, promoted by Grossmont College and Kaiser Permanente. This program helps nurses from other countries transition to the U.S. healthcare system, providing the education and training needed to take the NCLEX-RN.

I acquired my California RN license and worked for 13 years. The second major shift in my career occurred in 2016 when my husband was diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s. Receiving this news was devastating. As I tried to comprehend the implications of the diagnosis, I couldn’t help but mourn the future we had envisioned. I quit my job as an RN to become his full-time caregiver, resolving to live each day with courage and resilience, finding moments of joy and connection amidst the uncertainties. This journey ultimately led to acceptance and a spiritual awakening. He passed away earlier than I had wished but he left me with the gift of an open heart. This marked the beginning of my path to becoming an author.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I was first invited by the author of “Happiness Matters: You Are Not Alone” to share my story in her second book. This experience inspired me to write two short poetry books: “Don’t Fear Your Neighbor,” which emphasizes the importance of daily connections, and “Ethereal Samba,” an e-book available online.

My main quest is to lead by example. My journey through long-term grief has become a transformative force, teaching me that grief is not something to overcome but a profound teacher. Hope can emerge from the darkest moments.

When profound sadness and emotional numbness set in after a loved one’s passing, the most important gesture of love we can offer is our presence. Often, the individual won’t be able to express their feelings verbally. We need to understand that trauma, loss, and grief are not only trapped in our vocal cords. Sometimes, talking is the last thing someone wants to do. A hug, a warm cup of tea, a silent walk by the beach, or intentional breathing can go a long way in helping those profound emotions move through the body.

Are there any books, videos, essays or other resources that have significantly impacted your management and entrepreneurial thinking and philosophy?

Certain books made a significant difference in my long journey as a caregiver for a loved one: “Necessary Losses” by Judith Viorst and “Alzheimer’s 911: Help, Hope, and Healing for the Caregiver” by Frena Gray-Davidson. Additionally, teachings by spiritual teachers Michael Mirdad and Michael B. Beckwith on YouTube provided invaluable guidance and support.

Putting training and knowledge aside, what else do you think really matters in terms of succeeding in your field?

Other training or knowledge I’ve pursued includes immersing myself in activities that reconnect me with nature, such as gardening, walking barefoot, practicing breathwork techniques, meditating, engaging in ancestral healing, and learning about plant medicine. Additionally, I focus on limiting social media usage, finding a supportive community, and talking to people or professionals who help break the cycle of repetitive patterns.

Contact Info:

• Other: Email: [email protected]

Image Credits

Beach scene: Amor Photos.