A former patient at Henry Mayo Newhall Memorial Hospital returned to the hospital May 23 to celebrate her 90th birthday and thank the physicians, staff and volunteers who cared for her during her stay.

More than 50 caregivers gathered in Henry Mayo’s cafeteria where they were personally invited by family members after leaving a special mark with Mary DiLorenzo and her family.

DiLorenzo, came into Henry Mayo’s Emergency Department via ambulance after suffering from severe chest and abdominal pains, followed by a small stroke.  Soon, the doctors discovered she had a malignant mass in her stomach.

DiLorenzo underwent surgery, where the cancer was removed and she remained until she recovered.  Now Dilorenzo proudly calls herself a cancer survivor and is thankful for everyone who cared for her during the most difficult time in her life.

“Basically, we wanted to thank everybody who took such wonderful care of our mother during her stay,” said Nancy Horak and Gaylene May, DiLorenzo’s daughters. “There were many who were genuinely caring and empathetic, and we wanted to honor them for being so compassionate and making my mother’s stay comfortable.”
 
DiLorenzo was presented with a bouquet of flowers, numerous birthday cards, including one which was actually presented to her by 'Nick' a registered therapy dog, and a giant one signed by everyone who was present.  The hospital also presented DiLorenzo with a certificate in honor of her 90th birthday.

“I’m amazed at the turnout,” DiLorenzo said. “I’m glad that so many people were here and I was able to thank them in person.” 

Many of the doctors also took a few moments to stop by and congratulate DiLorenzo.  Although her primary care doctor, Dr. Joseph Terrazzino, was not able to attend, DiLorenzo admits that if it were not for his continual support and encouragement, she might not have had the stamina to endure the difficulties and pain along the road to recovery. 

"All the doctors, including my assigned general care physician, Dr. Shin Pin Ho, and my brilliant surgeon, Dr. Frank Yusuf (the hospital's Chief of Staff), were wonderful and treated me with such kindness and dedication."

Attendees were so happy to see DiLorenzo back on her feet, healthy and doing so well. Many remembered the woman who always wore a warm smile on her face.  Several even came in for the celebration on their day off.  Since they were often by her side during her recovery, three of the therapy dogs, Keesha, Laci and Nick, were also in attendance.  

Priscilla Garza-Stewart, MSW, Social Worker, came in on her day off to join the celebration. “I felt honored to be invited and wanted to make sure that I was here to celebrate,” she said. “I had a special relationship with Mary and her daughter.” 

“It’s a blessing to me to know that in caring for her we assisted her in making an easier transition,” she added.

Dominic Marcucilli, hospitality aide, said that he remembered how she would light up every time he delivered her food tray.  “I’m so glad to see her up and around again,” he said. 

“I feel a part of it, but know that it’s the whole group that brought her here today,” said Valerie Sokolow, RN, Charge Nurse in Med Surg IV came in on her day off.  “It feels good to know we made a difference.”