Health Care Hero: ‘It is not easy but it is fulfilling’

The Dayton Daily News is profiling the people who work hard every day to save lives and take care of us. Nominate a Health Care Hero by emailing Rebecca.Mullins@coxinc.com.

Name: Gayle Hood

Hometown (where you live now): Springfield

Job title: Environmental Service

Where do you work: Mercy Health – Springfield Regional Medical Center

COMPLETE CORONAVIRUS COVERAGE

Describe what your day is like/what you do: I clean and control infection throughout the hospital. I usually work 2 East as my assigned floor. At this current time, I am a little bit everywhere. I clean patients' rooms and try to make them smile while I'm there. I also clean restrooms and nurses stations for our staff.

What inspired you to get into health care? I have always wanted to be in health care. I absolutely love to take care of people in any way possible. I am also attending college to hopefully become an registered nurse.

Health Care Hero: ‘I became a nurse to make a difference’

What's a memorable experience you've had in health care? My most memorable experience was with a patient's wife who was very confused about what was happening with their husband. She was so nervous about his diet when he got home. She asked me if I knew anything about the "cardiac diet." I told her yes, since I have a dad, father-in-law, grandpa and husband who all have to follow it. So, the next hour I stood in her room reassuring her that it was easier than it sounded and that give it time and take it slow. She hugged me and her daughter who came in during the conversation thanked me. I left knowing I helped and seemed to have eased her and his mind a little bit.

What do you want readers to know about your job right now? It is not easy but it is fulfilling, and our jobs are helping control an out of control virus.

Health Care Hero: ‘I really love my job’