Christmas will always hold a special meaning for Rosa Ramirez. It represents family, health, and the kind of support that only a caring community can offer. Originally from Los Mochis, Sinaloa, Mexico, Rosa has been a patient at Gracelight Community Health for many years. Her story is one of strength, faith, and what happens when compassion meets persistence.
When Rosa first came to Gracelight, she was ready to give up. Navigating the process of getting medical coverage felt overwhelming, and she didn’t see a way forward. She could have gone anywhere else to ask for help, but it’s hard to say if someone else would have fought for her the way Karina did. Karina Flores, one of Gracelight’s Health Advocates, refused to give up on her.
What stands out most about their story is the bond they’ve built along the way. Watching them together, it’s clear there’s more than just a patient and advocate connection. Rosa treats Karina like family, and Karina speaks about Rosa with genuine admiration. Relationships like theirs are what make Gracelight different. Our patients often see us as family, and that sense of trust is what makes people feel safe coming here for care. At Gracelight, patients don’t just find treatment, they find comfort.
“The person who helped me fill out the application, her name is Karina. She helped me complete my application, and because of that, they referred me to a specialist,” Rosa shared. “I had uterine cancer. Thank God I’m free of that now. Right now, I’m still in recovery, but I no longer have cancer.”
The timing of that news couldn’t have been more meaningful. Moments before her interview, Rosa received a call confirming she was officially cancer free. Hearing those words felt like a miracle. “I’m very grateful to the clinic and to Ms. Karina, who helped me get back into the system and get the surgery I needed,” she said. Rosa’s warmth and strength fill every conversation. Even though English isn’t her first language, she speaks with openness and heart. Sitting across from her, it was easy to feel connected and to feel the kind of hope she carries within her. After everything she’s been through, Rosa’s spirit is grounded and calm, yet full of life. Her story reminds you what resilience really looks like.
Rosa often talks about the care she’s received at Gracelight, not just from Karina, but from everyone who’s helped her along the way. “From the ladies at the front desk, to the nurses, and my doctor, Dr. Kyi, an excellent doctor, I’m very grateful. I’m not leaving this clinic. I want to stay here. Thank you for having me here,” she said. Her connection to Gracelight goes far beyond her own care. Her husband and two daughters are also patients here, which says a lot about the trust her family places in this clinic. For Rosa, Gracelight isn’t just where she gets care, it’s where her family feels seen and supported.
When asked to describe the Gracelight team in one word, Rosa didn’t hesitate. “Perfect.” It’s her way of expressing what so many of our patients feel, the gratitude that comes from being cared for with kindness and dignity. Rosa’s story is one of love, faith, and community. It’s a reminder that when care comes from the heart, it can change everything.
Story Seeker: Health Advocate Karina Flores for Echo Park