How much could these issues hold me back?
I am a CNA. I got registered in March of 08. I worked as a CNA all of 08 but then had some issues come up. I wanted to ask how these could impact my employability. I've had a really tough time finding work and I know part of it is the economy, but I still have to think there's more I can do.

1) I don't have CPR certification. When I got my CNA, I was told that nursing homes are always understaffed and didn't need you to be CPR certified. While that may still be true, as I apply to hospitals and even home health agencies, they all want you to have it.

2) I don't have a car. This holds me back, mostly, from finding work as a home health aide. They want me to be able to drive clients around which, even if I had a car, I really wouldn't want to do (I'm not a very good driver). However, it also prevents me from getting a job at a nursing home that I can't walk/take a bus to.

3) ...and here's the unique one. I'm also a transsexual woman. Which means I, legally have a male name on my photo ID, on my CNA registration and for all my legal records so far. But I look/sound/act just like any other woman you might meet on the street. Yet, I keep getting the feeling that, when I apply for jobs, HR takes one look at the name on my application and, suddenly, they don't have any openings.

Any feedback you have would be wonderful. Thanks!