Louisa Jezerinac attended the Loma Linda University School of Allied Health Professions and graduated in 1974 with her degree in Respiratory Therapy. Following graduation, she accepted a position with Loma Linda University Medical Center, and a year later began working in home health care, which was then a relatively new area. She worked in this capacity until six months before her death on December 7, 1992.
Lou was a wonderful wife, mother, #1 Nona grandmother), co-worker, and friend. But she is perhaps best known for the care, compassion, and dedication she showed to her patients. She brought them encouragement and comfort at a time when it was most needed. As a physician who worked with Lou explained, "She gave her patients the gift of grace during difficult times."
In memory and honor of Lou, the Louisa and Peter Jezerinac Scholarship Endowment was established by Peter Jezerinac, her husband, and supported by family and friends. This yearly scholarship benefits respiratory therapy students who best exemplify the qualities of compassion and caring in the clinical setting- the qualities which best defined Lous life. Special consideration is given to students who are returning to school to change careers in order to realize their greatest potential.
