Gloria & Ann: The Spiritual Power of Friendship
Ann Newman was being treated for pneumonia in Good Samaritan Medical Center when the woman who cleaned and sterilized her room, an environmental services worker, started singing. The tune lifted Ann’s spirits, and she asked what she was humming. Gloria Gonzales replied that it was a God song sung in Spanish. Ann asked if Gloria would sing it again, and their friendship began.
Before Gloria’s visit, Ann was feeling low. Pneumonia is known for severe symptoms such as a phlegmy cough, fever, fatigue, and difficulty breathing. Ann’s illness and a late-night hospital admittance caused pain and loneliness. Ann said when Gloria visited and began singing, “It melted my heart and gave me a little boost!”
In the hospital, Gloria visited Ann’s room each day. She continued to sing hymns to Ann, and Ann praised the soothing powers of Gloria’s voice. “She was such an uplift and was my devotion every day,” said Ann. “I looked forward to it.”
Ann made a full recovery and credited Gloria’s spiritual care and friendship. “She opened up her heart, and it made me feel like, ‘I’m gonna get better!’”
The two friends grew close and kept in touch following Ann’s hospital discharge. “She is my mom, and I love her!” said Gloria.
Ann and Gloria’s story exemplifies the power of spiritual care. As a caregiver, Gloria helped nourish Ann’s spirit when it was lowest, resulting in a strong bond. “I believe the name of Good Samaritan,” Gloria said. “You must represent it and say I am a good Samaritan helping others.”