As the Humans Who Heal campaign continues at Harris Regional and Swain Community Hospitals, we are honored to shine a spotlight on one of the essential team members who plays a critical role in patient safety and infection prevention every day: Sujeiza Echevarria, a dedicated member of the Environmental Services team.

Sujeiza’s role as a housekeeper is more than just cleaning, it is a vital part of the healing process. Her work helps prevent the spread of infection, maintaining a calm and sterile environment, and ensures that every patient and visitor feels safe and cared for in our facilities.

What is your role at the hospital, and how long have you been here?
I work in Environmental Services as a housekeeper. My primary duty is to clean and disinfect healthcare areas to ensure the hospital stays safe and sterile for patients, staff, and visitors. I’ve been in the field for several years and take great pride in the work I do.

What inspired you to go into healthcare or your specific role?
I genuinely enjoy cleaning. I found a career that I not only get paid for but also love doing every day. It feels good to know that what I enjoy also helps others in such an important way.

How do you feel your work impacts patients or the community?
My work impacts everyone. Without a clean and sterile hospital environment, sickness would spread like wildfire. By maintaining a sanitary space, we’re protecting patients and staff from infections and creating a place where healing can happen safely.

Can you share a moment or memory that has stuck with you during your time here?
I think back to the height of the COVID-19 pandemic and Hurricane Helene. During those times, the importance of our work was more visible than ever. Everyone was looking to Environmental Services to help keep the hospital clean and functioning. It meant a lot to feel seen and appreciated for the critical role we play in those moments.

What does “healing” mean to you — whether physically, emotionally, or in another way?
Healing, to me, means peace. It’s about creating a space where the mind and body can recover, and I believe a clean environment is a big part of that.

What’s something people might not know about your role or department?
People may not realize just how often we’re working. Our Environmental Services team is constantly cleaning, day and night, to make sure the hospital remains safe and presentable. My shift often goes late into the evening, and we handle everything from patient rooms to hallways to specialized areas. It’s nonstop, but we know it matters.

The Humans Who Heal campaign continues to highlight the compassion, skill, and dedication of team members from all areas of care. At Harris Regional and Swain Community Hospitals, healing is a shared mission, and every role is essential.