‘Extra Daughter’ offers extra hands

COAST CITIES — Many people retire to Southern California, but for many reasons, their children may not be close by to lend the occasional hand. Sometimes unexpected illness can also bring the need of another pair of caring hands.
Dianne Barrymore has a solution to that problem and has begun her new business “An Extra Daughter” to accomplish just that. It began when she offered her time to a good friend who no longer drives and whose children live out of state.
“I took our friend, Cynthia, to her eye doctor appointments in San Diego so she could see the specialist that she liked, and then we’d go out to lunch. When her granddaughter got married, I helped her shop and pack for the wedding. I helped make arrangements for the trip and assisted her to the airport. After the wedding, I met her at the gate, drove her home, helped her unpack and took her clothes to the cleaners,” Barrymore said. “From my experience, when family members are too busy or live far away, there is a real need to help seniors get around and do things.”
In her role as an “extra daughter,” Barrymore works to simplify life, taking her clients to doctors appointments, on errands, helping with everyday details like getting holiday cards sent, gifts bought, phone calls and appointments made, help with cooking or organizing your home — really anything that is needed and all the things a companion, like a daughter, can provide.
Barrymore is a North County native, growing up on a ranch in Vista. She graduated from Vista High School, lived in Fallbrook after marrying her husband Tony and raised their daughter, Samantha, The couple moved to Carlsbad eight years ago.
“Because I am a longtime member of the North County community, I am an open book. Anyone can trace my history and check my credentials easily,” Barrymore said. “My wonderful parents have passed away, and I find it rewarding and an honor to be a daughter again.”
To contact “An Extra Daughter,” call (760) 212-6317 or e-mail [email protected].