I am not a caregiver myself but I work for a homecare agency. We are trying to be different by truly making an agency dedicated as much to the caregiver as the client. I'm trying to get a feel for how many RN's started out as caregivers and if it was a worthwhile experience. With that info, I can better equip our caregivers and prospective caregivers. Thats great, though, that you had such a positive experience. I would think it is a great stepping stone to becoming an RN and would provide good insights for what's to come. I've done plenty of service and volunteer work over the years (including having two years in the Middle East with humanitarian aid). There is nothing that compares to the joy of helping someone who needs it. It can be tiring and thankless but in the end, its always worthwhile. Thanks for sharing!