In the spirit of Hispanic Heritage Month, we acknowledge Dr. Mario Rueda, an esteemed figure at the Intensive Care Unit of St. Mary's Medical Center in West Palm Beach. Dr. Rueda's role extends beyond his position as the ICU head; he is also a dedicated trauma surgeon, frequently facing individuals during their most challenging moments.

Dr. Rueda's proficiency in bilingualism has emerged as a priceless asset in his role as a medical professional in South Florida. His unwavering dedication to this demanding vocation is deeply rooted in a significant experience he reflects on.

Dr. Rueda’s Journey

Hailing from Colombia, his career path was profoundly influenced by a personal connection: his mother's lifelong battle with epilepsy. Dr. Rueda's journey commenced from a young age with a strong desire to assist her. He delved into extensive research on how to alleviate her condition, which gradually led him into the field of medicine. Here, he gained invaluable knowledge and ultimately developed a profound passion for the practice.

At 18, he made a bold decision to relocate to the United States, embarking on an academic journey that culminated with dual qualifications from the University of Miami in both his undergraduate studies and medical school. Dr. Rueda describes his experience in South Florida as extraordinary, underscoring the cultural parallels with his home country and the ideal alignment he discovered within the region.

Proficiency In Spanish Is Key

Today, the Emergency Room at St. Mary's Medical Center serves as Dr. Rueda's second home. He underscores the profound importance of his ability to communicate fluently in Spanish with his patients, recounting an impactful experience that has left an indelible mark.

He vividly recollects, "I once encountered a father who bore witness to a devastating car accident involving his wife and son. He was at work at the time and, although proficient in English, I was unaware of his proficiency in Spanish. When I relayed the incident's details to him, he was in such a state of shock that my words were incomprehensible to him." The father's heartfelt response to Dr. Rueda's support remains etched in his memory: "He embraced me and uttered, 'God brought you to this country to help me.'"

These poignant words serve as a wellspring of comfort and motivation for Dr. Rueda during strenuous days, often spent away from his family, as he assists other families through their most challenging moments, including episodes of tragedy and grief.

A Celebration Of Cultural Heritage

Dr. Rueda explains the profound honor he feels in serving the South Florida community while celebrating his cultural heritage and actively contributing to the enhancement of the United States. He regards this as his humble way of giving back to a nation that has generously bestowed upon him numerous opportunities.