Meet Baptist Legends Carissa and Gabbi
An end-stage hospice patient on Gabbi Ibarra’s floor made a final request to be baptized by being fully submerged in water. With the patient being bed-bound, it was a challenge to think how this could be done.
Gabbi called Carissa Foote in labor and delivery and asked if her patient could be baptized using one of the laboring tubs. Carissa and the labor and delivery team wanted to honor this dying patient’s request. They then began prepping and warming the room and gathering warm blankets. With help from the patient’s family, pastor, Gabbi and Carissa, the team practiced singing and harmonizing Christian hymns. The room was prepared, and the baptism was sacred and beautiful.
The family expressed their gratitude and appreciation through their tears. The patient’s granddaughter said that not being baptized was a burden to him. She was very grateful to see his wish granted. Everyone involved in this encounter lives our values, but Gabbi and Carissa each poured their hearts and efforts into this patient's last wish. This was a defining moment and one of the most incredible things to see through. Both Gabbi and Carissa lived out the Values on this day and many other days as nurses caring for their patients. Their Ownership, Compassion, Excellence and Service make them each a Baptist Health Care Legend.
