For many years, cystic fibrosis made it difficult for Maria to breathe, fight off infections, or absorb nutrients in her food. Normal childhood experiences like going to school were out of the question.
Through it all, Maria and her family relied on the unfailing care of our hospital and her doctor, Carol Conrad, MD.
On November 7, 2012, Maria received an amazing gift: a double-lung transplant. She told us she was deeply thankful for the support of hospital supporters like you and for Dr. Conrad, who she said was, “there with me through my struggles, through my set-backs, through my endless amounts of hospitalizations, and most importantly, through my successes.”
Sadly, on April 7, 2016, Maria passed away unexpectedly after an illness, surrounded by her family.
“She was wise beyond her years,” says Maria’s mom, Marianela, who has found comfort knowing that Maria was an inspiration to all who met her. “I want to continue to work with other families battling cystic fibrosis and help share some of Maria’s strength with them.”