Name: Ruth Herrera
Tell us about how you learned about JMF and World PI Week! Ten years ago I started working for Dr. William T. Shearer as his administrative support. While working in his office on the avalanche of e-mails, I received an e-mail from his very dedicated Allergy and Immunology Clinic team, they were putting together a “JMF Kids Day” and needed volunteers. Being new and wanting to get involved in “office” activities, I signed up to volunteer. I didn’t know what this day was about, where it originated or who it was for. I knew this day was for our patients and help was being requested, which was all I needed to know. Once I was onboard, I started asking question and was very touched by the answers I was given. What a beautiful act of kindness and generosity did Fred and Vicki Modell provide for children and families they don't know. I was given the opportunity to participate in a day when a child and parent are worry free for a day, I saw how excited the patients were to attend the outing with their loved ones (and loved health care providers) and they shared their special day with other children that know what each other is going through; what an eye opener!
Three years ago, the Allergy and Immunology Service was very fortunate to have Dr. Jordan S. Orange join the Texas Children’s Hospital family as the new Service Chief. He didn’t bring any cold weather with him, instead he brought a Texas size vision on what we can do to improve our patient care in all aspects- clinical, administrative, research and outreach; not only for the Texas Children’s Hospital patients, but to the entire southeast region of Texas and beyond.
The Immunology, Allergy and Rheumatology Service celebrated our first World PI Week April 2013. We had a great turn out, Dr. Orange gave some brief remarks, and we released our balloons, a delightful event. However, the following year, we had bubbles and balloons and cake! All of this brought out the kid in us, we had an even bigger turn out, an ex-patient and current patients! Keep sending the bubbles!
On Friday, August 23, 2013, we had the honor of being named a Jeffrey Modell Diagnostic and Research Center, where I met Mr. and Mrs. Modell. Unfortunately, I was too caught up in the whirlwind of event details (typical administrative coordinator disease) to stop and tell them how admirable I think their work is. Thank you Mr. and Mrs. Modell.
Profession and Location: Senior Administrative Coordinator, Texas Children’s Hospital, Houston, Texas.
What inspires you? On a professional level, the entire Immunology, Allergy and Rheumatology Service. On a personal level, my family and faith.
What does World PI Week mean to you? The opportunity to reach out and educate at least one person on the importance of this mission.
What’s your favorite World PI Week memory? On a beautiful day in April 2014 the Immunology, Allergy and Rheumatology Service gathered to kick-off, World PI Week. Joining us was a former immunodeficiency patient, now a doctor at Texas Children’s Hospital and a current young patient. What better proof did we have in front of us to see how far we have gotten and what more we can offer our new patients. Together we all stood, blowing bubbles with smiles on our faces and releasing hope and awareness to the world.
Favorite Quote: “Where there is a will, there is a way.” While this may not be the most inspiring quote, I apply it to my everyday life. It helps me look past obstacles and focus on solutions.
To Sum Up! My name is Ruth Herrera, I was born and raised in Omaha, Nebraska. I moved to Houston 11 years ago and had the good fortunate to work for Dr. Celine Hanson at the Texas Department of Health. One thing led to another and I found myself working at Texas Children’s Hospital for amazing people.
True to my culture, I’m always surrounded with family. We travel, shop, and gather frequently. On my down time, I enjoy reading.
I wake up every morning thankful for all of my blessings.