Maria Ortega is not only an extremely competent nurse, conscientious, dedicated, patient-oriented and has an enormous patience with her patients. Her care for her patient is unequal in my experience of 30-35 years working in the field of medicine, but her care for dying patients in a hospice/terminal situation was exemplary, not only for her patient (my brother), but also with the surviving family members. She is knowledgeable, expeditious, and deserving the DAISY Award.

From Maria's Nurse Manager, Chris Consolo:

She is very hard worker and is always a team player. Maria is always offering help to her peers and is so gentle and kind with patients and families. Maria is very dedicated to her patients. She is meticulous in the care she gives and a strong patient advocate. Whether in her role as an RRT RN or ICU nurse, Maria ensures her patients receive the timely care needed to help them improve, but she also advocates for their dignity and comfort when it is apparent their quality of life is fading. Maria is sensitive and has a huge heart. She often spends time explaining to families what will happen in most difficult times and helping them to understand and how they can help their loved one and themselves. Maria is an asset to her team and her support in the ICU and her passion for excellent nursing care are incredible gifts she gives to Holy Cross each and every day.