I was hospitalized for 4 days. For 2 of those days, Maritza, my nurse, was there to not only calm my fears but support me emotionally. Being a 65-year-old woman and knowing I would be going home to be a caregiver to my 69-year-old husband, I was very anxious when I thought I was being discharged too soon. Maritza calmed my fears by assuring me I would not be released until I was feeling up to it. She provided me with lists of foods I could and could not eat, which provided me an opportunity to have my son purchase these items before I was released. She continued to check in on me and just took time to sit with me to talk and make sure I had all the information I needed before I left.

She always had a very positive attitude and was very compassionate to my needs. She helped me to understand my condition and took the time to explain everything. I felt so much better each and every time she entered my room. She was very patient with explaining everything and it was quite evident the knowledge and skills she had which showed me how deeply she cared. I wanted to hug her (and I did) every time I saw her. She stood out to me as one of the most knowledgeable and caring people I have ever met. As I mentioned to Maritza, she most definitely made a difference in my life and made the experience of a hospital stay as positive as it could be. In my opinion, she went above and beyond her job responsibilities.