On our unit, every heart transplant patient is honored with a special discharge ceremony marking the first time they leave the hospital with their new heart. This meaningful tradition includes a poem written by a transplant recipient, a symbolic bell-ringing, and a speech from the patient as they prepare to go home, an emotional celebration of resilience, healing, and hope. Recently, one of our heart transplant patients spoke only Spanish.

As preparations were underway for his ceremony, Ariel thoughtfully asked a simple but powerful question: “Do we have the poem in Spanish?” When she learned that it was not available, she took it upon herself, without hesitation, to ensure this patient would not be excluded from such an important moment. Ariel coordinated the translation of the poem into Spanish, typed it out, and printed copies not only for the patient but also for the transplant/VAD coordinators and the unit so it could be used again in the future.

As a Spanish speaker, Ariel then read the poem aloud during the ceremony in the patient’s native language. The impact was immediate and deeply emotional; there was not a dry eye among the patient, his family, or the healthcare team. Because of Ariel’s compassion and initiative, this patient was able to fully understand and feel the significance of the moment rather than simply observe it. She transformed what could have been an isolating experience into one of inclusion, dignity, and connection.

In a state like Texas, where millions of individuals speak Spanish, Ariel’s foresight ensures that many future patients will also be able to experience this cherished tradition in their own language. Ariel consistently goes above and beyond, not only caring for her patients’ physical needs but also honoring their identity, language, and humanity. Her actions created a moment that this patient and his family will never forget, and she is truly deserving of recognition for her extraordinary compassion.