A housekeeper named Luz

During my stay in the hospital I've met many people but there is one person who really stands out; a housekeeper named Luz Savala.  


In my situation, the cleanliness of my environment is paramount because my new immune system is not yet functioning.  The proactive medications I am given, my personal habits, and the cleanliness of my environment are my "armor" so to speak.  I rely on housekeeping to do a good job and ensure that this part of my protection is solid. It is not without interest that I watch the housekeepers who clean my room.  


On most days I have the privilege having Luz do my housekeeping.  From the first day I met her I liked her.  She knocks, enters with a smile, greets me kindly, and then begins her careful work.  As she works, we often have an opportunity to talk.  In order for me to fully understand her, I have to listen very closely -- Luz is originally from Mexico and she speaks in broken English.


During our conversations I have learned several things about Luz.  First, she is a mother of six and has one child, a daughter, who was stricken with Leukemia (my disease is very similar).  Luz is fully aware of the importance of a clean environment for patients like me.  In fact, she told me that she would clean her daughter's room very carefully every single day as her daughter battled the disease (her daughter is a survivor!).  Luz also shared with me that she works 6 and even 7 days a week in order support her family and assist in the payments of her daughter's medicals bills.


When I encounter a woman like Luz I am inspired.  She does not complain -- she works.  She does not give up or give in because her love is too great and her character too strong.  Today Luz shared with me that years ago she became a US citizen.  In my estimation, she is precisely the sort of citizen we need.


Happy Thanksgiving Luz!  I am thankful for you!


Side Note:  My blog now has 4 followers!  Thanks Becca, Susie, Shiela, and Coffee Chick!