Family Experiences Thanksgiving Miracle

MIAMI (CBSMiami.com) – A South Florida family has a big reason to be thankful this holiday season.

Just a couple of weeks ago, they feared Gladys Ramos, a mother and grandmother, wouldn't survive a serious illness.

Thursday, they brought thanksgiving to her at West Kendall Baptist Hospital. Ramos has spent the past month in the hospital due to severe complications of hepatitis.

"She was going through a process where we didn't even think she was going to make it," said her sister Ana Marin. "Anytime we have thanksgiving or any party, she's the first one there and she's all dressed up all the time. That's why we're here we can't conceive having Thanksgiving without her."

So the family filled the hospital café with Thanksgiving dinner. Ramos had tears in her eyes as she saw her entire family.

"I'm happy. I can't believe it; everybody around me, it's really good. It's a good feeling," Gladys said.

The outpouring of love from the family isn't just about the food. Nursing supervisor April Parchment said the celebration is great for Ramos' health.

"It really gives the patient something to hope for something to look forward to and it really helps in the recovery," Parchment explained.

This year a few new faces became part of the family thanksgiving tradition. The doctors and nurses Ramos credits with saving her life joined the celebration.

"They are the kindest people," Ramos said. "They took care of me and without them I don't know where I would've been right now, but I'm here, and I'm happy; very happy."