On behalf of myself and our entire district, I would like to extend my deepest condolences to the colleagues, family, friends, and loved ones of Celia Marcos.

In our community, and across the country, we have seen nurses, first responders, and hospital staff put their own health at risk to protect and save others.

They represent the best of America as they work day and night to save lives and keep our country running.

We owe all frontline workers in hospitals our thanks, and we also owe them much more than that. We must fight to do all we can to get them the PPE they need to do their jobs safely, and unfortunately we aren’t there yet. I also believe we must include hazard pay for hospital, skilled nursing facility and other essential workers in the next relief package.

Celia’s passing is devastating for our entire community and nation. We have lost a dedicated, hardworking, kind soul who can never be replaced.

As we mourn Celia together, I hope we can all continue to live by the example she set.

Her memory will live on in our hearts each and every day.