Paola was not hired to save lives, but that’s just what she did one July day.
When patients and visitors walk through the doors of a medical office building in Phoenix, Arizona, they’re greeted by clean, welcoming surroundings, thanks in large part to CCS Facility Services Day Porter Paola. But on July 22, 2025, Paola went far beyond her normal duties—she helped save a man’s life.
That day began like any other. Paola was cleaning the seating near the building’s entrance when she noticed an older man walk in. He was drenched in sweat and white as a sheet. “I thought it was the Arizona heat,” Paola recalled. But as she went to check on him, she quickly realized something was seriously wrong.
The man began clutching his chest and struggling to communicate. Even with a language barrier, Paola understood that he needed urgent medical help. She gently guided him to sit down, breathe, and stay calm while she went to find a bilingual speaker who could help her understand what he was saying.
When Paola returned with a lab staff member moments later, the situation had worsened: the man had collapsed on the floor.
Having practiced as a nurse in her native Colombia for a decade, Paola knew the imminent danger this man was in and that he needed medical treatment quickly. She remained composed and focused, supporting the patient and working alongside the lab employee and a building engineer to call 911.
The paramedics arrived quickly and rushed the man to a nearby hospital. Though Paola never got the chance to speak with the patient or his family, she later learned from the building engineer that the man was ok.
The experience left a deep impression on Paola. “I’m proud I could help. If someone asks for help, you help.”
Christina Corrales Garza, the CCS Facility Services Account Manager who oversees the facility, says Paola is too humble.
“A lot of people panic in a situation like that,” Christina said. “But Paola stayed calm, overcame a language barrier, and did exactly what was needed. It’s truly a testament to her character.”
According to Christina, this wasn’t the first time Paola had gone above and beyond.
“In addition to everything else she does, I’ve seen Paola help patients find their way around the building. She treats everyone with kindness and respect.”
For Paola, it’s not just part of the job, it’s part of who she is. Her assignment at a medical office building was not because of her training as a nurse but because of her genuine compassion. Paola’s story is a powerful example of CCS Facility Services’ service heart mentality and a reminder that care and compassion can make a life-changing difference.
