I was thinking of Melissa a couple of weeks ago out of the blue, appearing in my mind with her usual smiling face!

She was my manager in our oncology unit at CPMC. Very supportive at work,  nice and understanding especially during my father's illness.

She took time to listen and ask how I'm doing at work, uplifts my spirit during challenging days. I will never forget your goodness and genuine heart . You have a special place with God in heaven. I pray for your family to comfort their sorrows and replace their grief with good memories. 

I first met Melissa at CPMC.  I remember I was immediately struck by her radiant smile, her calm approach to everything that came her way, her willingness to work hard and to always want to help everyone- her patients, her staff, the team. 

I became even more fortunate to work closely with Melissa in the Lean Promotion Office .  I soon realized she had a relentless quest for learning, a tenacious commitment to doing the right thing and to help everyone, always . She was a gift to every team she was part of -willing to be there to support you, to ask the hard questions no one else had the courage to ask and willing to take risks! 

What is most important to me was the friendship that I developed with Melissa over the years. She was always there to great with a smile, a warm hug and a laugh.  She was the best cheerleader and support for all things in life- work, personal health, parenting.  I always left my time with Melissa with my heart full and feeling like a better version of myself. 

I  am so grateful for having the opportunity to see Melissa every few months over the past few years when I traveled to Sacramento for work . My last visit with her was on 9/11/2024.  We had a fabulous sunset walk in the Sacramento Peace Rose Gardens.  We talked about so many parts of our lives . We laughed.  We reflected on the power of the peace garden.  She glowed with her usual radiance.  I left with my heart full.  

My hope for Melissa is that she has found peace.  My hope for you Michael and Naomi as well as the rest od the family is that you find ways to embrace the memories of your bright, beautiful, passionate, compassionate and fiercly loving Meliisa so that her light continues to shine in your days!