The importance of family is one of the dominant themes in Dr. Mariella Velez Martinez’s life. It was her grandmother’s illness that inspired a career in cardiology and a mother’s cancer diagnosis that made caregiving more personal. That experience also added a perspective Velez believes has made her a better doctor.
Since joining Memorial Cardiac and Vascular Institute in August of last year, the fellowship-trained physician has brought a family focus to treating advanced heart failure and transplant patients. “I feel a connection to those in my care, know their loved ones, and the ins and outs of their day to day. Having those personal relationships are very important to the care I provide.”
Velez says the most gratifying moments come from seeing her patient’s conditions improve, whether that’s post-transplant for those requiring surgery or during the course of treatment for those that don’t.
