I was hospitalized while traveling from San Diego to Phoenix. My mother was with me; with very limited financial resources to get my mother a hotel room while I was being treated in the hospital, I asked to speak with the charge nurse about whether my mother could stay while I was there. Maria asked my roommate if it was okay for him to have my mother staying at the recliner. My roommate didn’t hesitate to say yes.


Maria made sure my mother was comfortable. She brought her pillows and a warm blanket. She asked her if she had dinner, and my mother said she had some food she could get from our vehicle. Maria saw my mom eating crackers. She came back and brought her food from the cafeteria. My mother and I both got teary-eyed. I told her I can’t repay her because I am struggling financially right now. Maria said she is paying forward the blessing she received that day. Maria said she got promoted and is happy to share with my mother her blessing. My 3 days of stay at Onvida were so great.

Thank you, Maria! Your unit is so lucky to have you as a supervisor. You embodied the true meaning of a nurse. Thank you for checking on us the whole time we were there and making sure my mom had food. You are such a beautiful human being.