Signing Her Way Across the High Seas…

When I was introduced to Pilar a couple of years ago, I knew right away she was going to add a tremendous amount of personality and passion to CareVacations' sign language interpreter program. After her first assignment with CareVacations, Pilar became a permanent fixture on our roster and continues to work our cruise assignments on a regular basis.

Pilar resides in California, but after getting to know her, I have no doubt her heart is with the sea. When I asked Pilar how many cruises she's taken, she couldn't even remember! "Is that sad?", she asked after responding. Not at all, Pilar!

In addition to cruising, Pilar does some freelance work in a variety of settings, although she did indicate to me, she would love nothing more than to just interpret for cruises. Sounds like someone who loves the high seas to me! If it's true what they say about a picture saying a thousand words, I think Pilar's picture says it all!

Pilar has been interpreting professionally for over a decade after accidentally falling in to the career. As a college student, Pilar found herself interpreting for a fellow student during times when the official interpreter was delayed or absent. After inquiring about the importance of punctuality and attendance of an interpreter, Pilar was offered the opportunity to get certified in her skills as a sign language interpreter and become a paid interpreter for students.

Interpreting cruises gives Pilar profound gratification in being able to help facilitate making a complete stranger's travel dream come true and is an easy for for this adventurous interpreter; her passion for exploration and love of laughter and fun makes her a perfect candidate for this work.

In addition to cruising, Pilar's interests include anything that embodies cultural diversity; she loves to travel, read, dance, and she loves live music. Pilar is especially passionate about the theater... another reason why she makes a great addition to any cruise.

I asked Pilar to describe what her perfect 24 hours would be like and she painted this picture for me: "I like life with a bit of spontaneity, and I would make sure to have the following: the best cup of coffee, the finest, freshest salad, daylight of leisure with a novel upon a sailboat, and an evening of wine, music, and friends."

How would I describe Pilar in just one word? I wouldn't... it's just not possible. So I will take the liberty of using several words: PASSIONATE, DEDICATED, SPIRITED, PROFESSIONAL, LIVELY, CONFIDENT, DELIGHTFUL, ADVENTUROUS... and on, and on.

So CHEERS to Pilar and all that she brings to CareVacations' program and all that she adds to the experiences of the countless passengers who have had the privilege and honor of having her as their interpreter!

Thanks, Pilar, for everything you do!

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