I spent three days in Whittier Hospital following a major surgery. Maria cared for me on the second day and was far and away the best nurse of my stay. In every interaction, she showed genuine concern, interest, and compassion for me. Not just as a patient but as a person. When she would tend to me, she not only took care of the immediate task, but also paid attention to what other needs I might have, whether I voiced them or not, and anticipated and acted on those needs. Throughout her care, she was always kind and caring to me, and would talk with me even if only for a few moments, so that I wouldn't feel lonely or isolated. My surgery was one which takes away a lot of your dignity during recovery, but Maria always treated me with respect, despite the fact that there was so little I could do on my own. I could not have asked for a better nurse than Maria!