Tampa, Florida. – While awaiting a life-saving double lung transplant, Vanessa Hernandez transformed her room at Tampa General Hospital into a hub of joy and creativity.
Hernandez suffers from a genetic disorder that ruined his lungs, leading to a seven-month stay at the TGH Transplant Institute.
What they are saying:
“I have decided that you need to enjoy every minute you have on this planet,” Hernandez said.
From dark party glows to spa nights to dressing as a superhero, she counted every moment.
“There was nothing I could do about my health,” Hernandez said. “So I have to lift myself up and then find another way to continue.”
Outside her hospital window, Hernandez finds encouragement from unexpected sources: construction workers build a new transplant tower.
“There are people who just rely on me, and they depend on me,” explained Hernandez.
Vanessa Hernandez found encouragement from an unexpected source: Construction workers built a new transplant tower.
Their heartfelt message, “Stay Strong,” has become a symbol of unwavering support during her journey.
“Patients are positive and we do not deny that staff members are positive and optimistic to make it easier,” Dr. Ganders Katrapps said.
Her infectious personality didn't stop there. She continued to develop lifelong friendships with several nurses in the hospital.
Vanessa Hernandez brought joy and received strong support in return during her seven months' stay at the TGH Transplant Institute.
“When we played the rounds with our team, we were always looking forward to going to her room. “She was always in a great spirit.”
Even while fighting for her own life, Hernandez worked to help others. She helped bring the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation walk to Tampa.
“I kept motivated,” Hernandez said. “It was meant to keep me going.”
Vanessa Hernandez's sister-in-law took her wedding to the hospital so she could attend special occasions.
In a moving moment, Hernandez's step-sister took her wedding to the hospital. With the help of a nurse, Vanessa served as a maid of honor in a beautiful and intimate ceremony.
“It was one of the happiest days of my life,” Hernandez said. “I cried so much. It was so emotional that they included me in their wedding on their special day. And it was beautiful.”
sauce: Information about this story was collected by Fox 13 photojournalist Brian Gray.
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