Teresa is Trading Scrubs for Retirement

After 20 years of caring for patients at Sierra View Medical Center, Teresa Cortez Ruiz is trading scrubs for retirement. As a Certified Nursing Assistant in our Medical-Surgical unit, she played an important role in supporting patients through some of their most vulnerable moments, while also being a trusted teammate within the department.

Originally from Michoacán, Mexico, Teresa immigrated to the United States and began building a new life in Fresno before eventually settling in Porterville with her family. Over the years, she has appreciated the close-knit feel of the Porterville community and the kindness of the people who made her feel welcome.

Teresa joined Sierra View Medical Center in 2005 after seeking a position that offered strong benefits and new opportunities. Inspired by a desire to help people, Teresa pursued a career in healthcare and dedicated herself to making patients feel comfortable, supported, and cared for throughout their hospital stay.

In her role on the Medical-Surgical unit, Teresa assisted patients with daily activities, recovery after procedures, mobility, bathing, and comfort needs, while also supporting nurses and physicians. As an English and Spanish interpreter, she helped bridge communication between patients, families, and care teams, ensuring patients felt understood and supported during their care experience.

One of the most rewarding parts of Teresa’s career has been seeing former patients doing well outside of the hospital and being recognized and remembered by them. Those moments served as a reminder of the lasting impact compassionate care can have on patients and families.

Teresa shared that she sees Sierra View’s values of Compassion, Collaboration, Accountability, Integrity, and Respect reflected throughout her department every day. Her dedication to patients, coworkers, and families embodied those values throughout her time at Sierra View.

As she enters retirement, Teresa looks forward to traveling, spending more time with her family and grandchildren, caring for her garden, and focusing on her health and well-being.

We thank Teresa Cortez Ruiz for her 20 years of service and dedication to Sierra View Medical Center and wish her a happy and well-deserved retirement.