Zenaida Reyes Aurellano-Hoh, M.D., was a devoted mother, beloved wife and physician. Zeny, as she preferred to be called by family and friends, was respected and genuinely loved by all who knew her. Motivated by her faith in her God, she dedicated her life to the needs of others and alleviating suffering. She was born in Manila, Philippines and educated at the University of Santo Tomas. After her residency training at Albert Einstein Medical College, she served at Johns Hopkins Medical Center, UCLA, and the Kaiser Permanente Medical Center in Panorama City as an anesthesiologist.

Her death from a cerebral aneurysm on June 29, 2003 was mourned by many, including her husband John, son Jonathan, father Gaudencio, mother Natividad, and nine siblings. However, her family’s tragedy made a difference for four other families. When it was clear that she could no longer make use of her body, her family abided by her prior wishes to donate her organs so others could live. “Though nothing can take away the sense of loss we feel even to this day,” said John, “we take comfort in knowing she is still a blessing to others each day.

“What a priceless gift a kidney was to each of two people who no longer have to have dialysis. For the person who could barely walk from bed to bathroom, how wonderful it must be, to have a heart that allows him freedom to once more experience living. For one who had to struggled and fight for each breath, what a relief it must be to fully fill her lungs and even sing. All these marvels gave a second chance for those who received her gifts of life.”