The Ogandos: A Story of Compassion Across Borders
- Majid Sadigh, MD
- Nov 4
- 4 min read
In global health, we often speak of partnerships — between institutions, across borders, among colleagues. But now and then, something deeper takes root: a bond that transcends roles and geography. A bond that feels like family.
For us, that family has been the Ogandos of Santo Domingo.
Since 2016, just four years after the Nuvance Health Global Health Program began its partnership with Universidad Iberoamericana (UNIBE) in the Dominican Republic, the Ogando family has opened their home — and their hearts — to our students, residents, and faculty. Their warmth, humility, and generosity have become the soul of our work there. Those who’ve stayed with them recall not just where they lived, but how they felt: welcomed, cared for, deeply seen.
But their impact reached far beyond hospitality. The Ogandos prepared traditional Dominican meals with love and care while patiently helping our learners grasp the nuances of Spanish. They guided us through neighborhoods and historic sites, gently revealing the richness and complexity of Dominican culture. Over time, they became more than hosts — they became our most trusted cultural ambassadors.
And then, in May 2025, our roles quietly reversed.
I received an urgent message from Dr. Loraine Amell — the Vice-Chancellor for International Affairs at UNIBE — not in her official capacity, but as a friend. Nine-year-old Zoé, Esmeralda Ogando’s daughter, had developed severe pancreatitis. A CT scan revealed a large mass near the head of her pancreas, entangled with vital organs. Her doctors recommended she seek urgent care at a pediatric oncology center abroad. Time was critical.
The request that came was not a general appeal, but a deeply personal message — shaped by nearly a decade of trust and shared experience. Esmeralda’s note, forwarded by Loraine, carried a mother’s voice filled with anguish, love, and hope.
Given the long-standing relationship between our institutions — and more importantly, between people — I shared the message with Dr. John Murphy, President of Nuvance Health, and Grace Linhard, the chief Development Officer. Their response was swift, compassionate, and grounded: they would explore every avenue of support, within our capacity and responsibilities.
It’s important to clarify that this was an extraordinary, individualized circumstance — made possible through the collaborative goodwill of many and the fact that Zoé was covered by her mother’s insurance, which enabled access to specialized care. This was not a formal extension of institutional services, but an act of solidarity rooted in human connection.
Zoé and Esmeralda initially arrived in New York at a Nuvance–Northwell hospital. While awaiting surgery and the activation of insurance coverage, Nuvance Health kindly arranged for their temporary stay in Connecticut. During this time, they had the opportunity to meet Ms. Grace Linhard, whose kindness left a lasting impression. Upon returning to New York for surgery, they were graciously welcomed by the Ronald McDonald House — another testament to the community of care surrounding them.
Esmeralda later wrote:
“You cannot imagine what a miracle it has been for us to be here in this hospital, receiving such outstanding care, surrounded by professional and compassionate doctors… As a mother, my heart will be forever grateful to you. This is a gift we will cherish forever.”
Extensive testing followed. Biopsies were performed. And then — a sliver of light: the mass was benign. Surgery was scheduled for early July. On July 30, after a seven-hour procedure, Esmeralda sent another message — this time filled with relief and radiant joy:
“Every organ was taken care of, the cyst was removed, and all the new connections seem good. Zoé is having a very smooth recovery… We are never going to have enough words to thank you all. Our angels on earth.”
Zoé is currently in the process of recovery, receiving care from excellent professionals.
This was not merely a medical journey. It was a reminder that global health is, at its core, about relationships. A family who had once fed us, taught us, and welcomed us into their world was now receiving care shaped by those very same bonds.
To Dr. Murphy, Ms. Linhard, and all those who helped facilitate Zoé’s care — thank you for exemplifying the quiet generosity and principled responsiveness that define the best of who we are. This moment was not a new precedent, but a reflection of a long-standing relationship rooted in mutual respect, gratitude, and shared humanity.
And to Zoé — may your future be long, luminous, and full of promise. Your resilience has reminded us why we do this work: not only to serve, but to connect — across borders, across time, and across lives.
