The world of geriatric care often ends up prioritizing efficiency by sacrificing humanity. However, for Gigi Bittar, her work has always remained deeply personal, built upon a reputation for compassionate care.
As the president of G&J In Home Care LLC, Bittar has spent almost four decades working in the healthcare industry. During that time, she has built a reputation for excellent medical support, emotional resilience and a commitment to the dignity of those she cares for.
Building a Foundation in Care
Bittar’s career is defined by a singular desire: a need to be useful. Born into a family of 11 in Brazil, she developed an inclination to care for others early on. Even at the age of three, she was attempting to “assist” her eldest brother with his high school homework.
Her childhood nature soon grew into a professional commitment. In 1988, after earning a teaching degree and establishing a career in education, Bittar relocated to the United States. Though her background was in education rather than geriatric care, her past work still gave her the discipline necessary to attend to the well-being of those around her.
In March 1989, Bittar formalized her training to become a certified nursing assistant. She moved to Oregon, which was at the time emerging as a national leader in elder care services. Her career began in a nursing home, where her work ethic and compassionate nature quickly brought her distinction.
A New Professional Goal
A pivotal moment came for Bittar shortly after the birth of her twins. A resident’s family, recognizing her dedication, approached her with an offer to handle full-time private care for their family member. She accepted their offer, a decision that would come to redefine her career path.
Working alongside her husband, she provided her patient with continuous, high-quality care. The experience cemented her belief that caregiving is not merely a task but a profound responsibility to support the well-being of an entire family.
In 2009, Bittar founded G&J In Home Care LLC, building on the foundation of her earlier venture, Forever Care Homes. For many years, she managed every aspect of the company, from hiring and payroll to hands-on patient care. Today, the firm remains a family-run organization, with her daughter and daughter-in-law working alongside her to maintain the high standards of care she established.
A Life of Service and a Vision of the Future
Bittar feels her leadership style is the result of her heart-led philosophy, as she is known for her frankness, compassion and sincerity. She operates entirely without an advertising budget, relying only on word-of-mouth referrals. For almost 40 years, her patients have benefited from her competitive financial model and personal involvement in each unique situation.
Looking to the future, Bittar is determined to remain in service to others. She aims to support the growth of her family business while also pursuing two deeply held personal aspirations: writing a book chronicling her decades of experience and establishing a nonprofit organization dedicated to caring for children.
Throughout her career, Bittar has always viewed her success not as a series of unrelated incidents but as one long chain guided by her faith and steadfast dedication to those under her care.
