Ruby Ortiz, RN, BSN

While we kept vigil for our loved mom/wife/sister, Ruby’s kind presence was so gentle to us. She reverently cared for her patient as if it was someone she loved and was losing - with not an ounce of complaint or rushing through but seemingly limitless patience. When she had to clean her many times in one shift - sometimes immediately following just finishing - she tenderly worked with her PCA, Karen, to make such a wonderful team. In our final hours with a beloved person reduced to unresponsive delirium, we very much sensed Ruby understood this woman used to be full of life and kindness. For us, we remember how this patient used to be a doctor, a mother, a neighbor, a volunteer, an active member of her church and the way Ruby spoke to her and cared for her touched us deeply in our darkest hours. Thank you. p.s. She also continually cared for us, offering us whatever we might need to keep vigil.