Maritza exemplifies everything a patient/family member could ask for in a caregiver. Her caring nature shines through in her work. She was outstanding in her care of my father during his stay at St. Luke's. She was very professional, thorough, and thoughtful in handling the situation he was in. This kind of care is what is hoped for and expected with the care of a loved one. However, what is hoped for but not always expected is the kind of care that goes beyond the medical kind. It's the kind of care and compassion that goes with caring for a patient on a human level. The kind that gives them hope and the understanding that things will get better and that they as an individual are strong enough both physically and mentally to see the good times that lie ahead and to reach them.

My father had to have his lower leg amputated due to complications from an infection. As is expected with anyone that would have to deal with the loss of a limb, this was a very trying time for my father. Maritza went above and beyond in keeping his morale up and his eyes focused squarely on the prospect of both a normal and brighter future. The time she spent both talking and listening to him was to me the most important and impressive thing she did for him. Both he and us as his family will forever be thankful to her.

My only wish is that every patient that comes to St. Luke's could have the privilege to have Maritza be part of the team that treats them. This is why I nominate Maritza Rivera for the DAISY Award.