Zarah was described as "one who understood my struggles better than anyone…" Out of sincere appreciation, this patient wrote the following about Zarah and her experience at Valley Presbyterian Hospital:
During my stay at Valley Presbyterian Hospital, I had the pleasure of having Zarah as my nurse. Zarah developed a special bond with me, right away, and I believe she understands me better than anyone… we are both Autism Moms. Zarah understood I would need different aftercare instructions, once released from the hospital. She provided me with advice on how to handle returning home, assuring me it was okay if I was unable to do everything that I used to do. She knew I was extremely emotional and upset. She just grabbed me and hugged me tightly. She let me cry it out…and then we laughed. I was so grateful for the opportunity, to have received care from such a wonderful, hardworking, yet smiling nurse.
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By definition, compassion is a natural quality or trait that enables a nurse to discern a need, provide understanding and comfort to a patient in need. Zarah served as an example of this type of genuine compassion.
Zarah's manager described her as one of the most genuine people he has ever met, characteristically reserved, warm-hearted, and compassionate. She is a diligent person who makes ordinary human connections, like the one with this patient extraordinary. Zarah never complains and consistently completes her work in a timely and precise manner.