CELEBRATE DR. GAONA'S REMARKABLE LEGACY WITH A DONATION IN HER HONOR

As an educator, Dr. Gaona taught by example and left an indelible mark on not only the lives of medical students she has precepted, but also the lives of patients they go on to care for. She was exceptionally committed to the development of compassionate and innovative physicians. She was awarded outstanding educator for the College's Department of Family, Community, and Preventive Medicine and was selected by medical students to join the prestigious Gold Humanism Honor Society, recognizing compassionate care.

At just 35 years old, Dr. Gaona became a patient herself and faced a five-year battle with colorectal cancer. She met her illness with the same tenacity and strength she had always poured into caring for those around her. Even throughout treatment, she remained devoted to Wesley, her patients, and her students. Her impact—in how she cared, how she taught, and how she led—cannot be overstated. Wesley is a better place because she was here. She will be deeply missed by all who have worked with her, learned with her, and loved her.

Your donation honors Dr. Gaona’s remarkable legacy. It helps Wesley continue providing compassionate care to everyone in our community, especially those who need it most. It also supports the training of future clinicians who share her commitment to serving the underserved. Most importantly, your gift keeps the spirit of Dr. Gaona’s life-changing work alive for generations to come.