On September 17th, our community suffered an unimaginable loss with the tragic passing of April Leigh Saez. April was a bright light in so many lives—cherished as a daughter and granddaughter, loved as a sister and partner, treasured as a friend, and admired as a mentor. She had a rare gift for making people smile and laugh no matter the circumstances. Kind, smart, hardworking, and full of life, April touched everyone around her.

April was a beacon of compassion, strength, and dedication in the nursing profession. A proud alumna of Saint Monica Preparatory, she carried her vibrant spirit from the volleyball court and cheer team into the halls of healthcare, where she made an indelible impact.

April began her nursing journey at Santa Monica College, where she excelled academically and served as Class President of the Student Nurse Association. She continued her education at California State University, Fullerton, earning her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), while simultaneously serving veterans at the VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System. Her roles evolved from Student Nurse Technician to Registered Nurse serving in the Emergency Department, where she was known for her positivity, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to patient care.

April held multiple certifications and was recognized on the Honor Roll. Her leadership and empathy made her a mentor to many and a cherished colleague. She embodied the true spirit of nursing—serving with heart, healing with skill, and uplifting everyone around her.

Her tragic passing left a profound void in the lives of her family, friends, and the healthcare community. April’s legacy lives on in the lives she touched and the example she set.

The Nurse Honor Guard honors April’s unwavering dedication, her compassionate spirit, and the profound impact she made in the lives of her patients and colleagues. Her legacy will continue to inspire those who follow in her footsteps, and her memory will forever be held in the heart of the nursing community.