Maria first met this patient in January when she came in with abnormal bloodwork and in pain. This patient was Spanish speaking and immediately bonded with Maria not only because they could communicate with each other easily but because Maria is extremely passionate and comforting. Being an experienced nurse, familiar with this patient's type of illness reassured this patient and her husband that they were in good hands.
This patient was on the unit for months fighting with complications due to her illness. She had multiple trips to the ICU and emergent surgery that ultimately left her with drains and an ostomy bag. Physically and emotionally this was hard for this patient. Maria visited this patient in the ICU, would call her husband with updates when he was unable to be by her side and walked every step with them to make sure they were supported. Maria helped this patient with her daily activities and continued to encourage her to build up her strength so she could do more and more on her own. I believe the bond these two shared made her fight a little easier.
She always expressed her thanks and love for our team, especially Maria because she made her feel safe. Days, weeks, months of encouragement, teaching about treatments, infection risks, how to care for her colostomy, she still smiled and laughed as Maria constantly checked on her whether she was her nurse that day or not. Ultimately our team and the world suffered a huge loss when this patient lost her battle with ALL. Her husband reached out to Maria and we went to her house to see her one last time. I will never forget the smile I saw when this patient saw Maria in her room, unconditional love, and support from Maria until the end. She is an amazing nurse and human.
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Maria was with us from the first day we received the news that my wife had leukemia. Spanish is our first language so there were times where communication would be difficult with the hospital staff. Maria always translated and took the time to review everything with us, so we felt comfortable and had the opportunity to ask any questions.
My wife's battle with Leukemia was very unpredictable. She ended up in the critical care unit many times and we worried she would only get worse. Maria always came to visit us as well as the rest of the team. Over the time my wife was stuck in the hospital she did her best to stay strong but at times it was difficult. We have four children at home, and she hated being away from them. Maria spent extra time with both my wife and me and did her best to lift our spirits. She is the definition of a nurse. She is dedicated to her patients and has such a big heart. I am beyond grateful for the care and compassion she has shown to us.
Even when my wife was transferred to another hospital I would reach out to the staff, in particular, Maria to let them know how we were doing. Our bond with Maria had grown very strong and we felt so comfortable being able to talk to her she became family. Unfortunately, my wife's condition did not improve, and she returned home with hospice care. I reached out to the staff and some of the nurses came to the house to see her, including Maria. It was very difficult to go through this and Maria held our hand the entire way. I just want her to know how grateful I am and how much my wife appreciated everything that she did for her. We love you Maria and everyone in the unit. Thank you for everything!