MADERA, Calif. – After nearly two decades of helping young patients feel at home inside Valley Children’s Hospital, Juanita Marquez is retiring in May, closing a chapter defined by comfort, joy and connection.
Marquez, who was born and raised in Madera, began her journey at Valley Children’s as a volunteer. When she saw a position for a child life assistant open in 2008, she jumped at the opportunity – and has remained in the role for the last 18 years.
“It brings me joy,” she said. “When they first come in, they’re very quiet and timid – and then they feel comfortable. They feel like they’re at home. We feel like they’re part of our family.”
Child Life assistants help children cope with the stress of hospitalization by creating opportunities for play, social interaction and emotional support. Part of Marquez’s duty is to welcome patients to the Child Life Playroom and George’s Clubhouse at Valley Children’s Hospital, both of which are filled with activities, arts and crafts, video games and more.
These spaces provide a place for patients to leave their rooms, meet other children their age and be themselves – even as they await medical treatment.
“We find out what they really enjoy doing, like video games or arts and crafts, and we encourage them to keep coming back,” she said. “They may have to go back for procedures, but then they come right back. We always say, ‘We’ll save your project right here.’”
Over the years, Marquez has become a familiar face to children and families who return for clinic visits or ongoing care. Many of them make a point to find her.
“A lot of the kids come looking for me,” she said. “‘Where is Miss Juanita?’ That’s a big joy for me. I must have done something that impressed them.”
She said watching patients grow more confident, expressive and joyful during their time at the hospital has been one of the most meaningful parts of her career. Parents often tell her how grateful they are to see their children “being themselves” again.
After nearly two decades of helping kids find themselves, Marquez has decided to retire in May.
“Oh, I’ve been telling my coworkers I’m going to retire for years, but now it’s true,” she said. “I will miss this place very much, this hospital a lot.”
As she prepares to step away, Marquez hopes her work – and the relationships she built – leave a lasting impression.
“I hope I leave an impression that they can do what they want to do,” she said. “You may have a dream that you want to be one certain thing. Go for it.”
Marquez said she looks forward to running into former patients out in the community, enjoying time with their families and living full, bright lives.
“Hopefully I get to see them out and about just enjoying life,” she said.
The month of March also marks Child Life Month, which honors and recognizes the impact that the team has on patients and families.
To learn more about the Child Life team at Valley Children’s, click here.
