The first CHamoru woman from Guam to become a physician passed away on March 4, 2022. Dr. Olivia Cruz was a vocal advocate of more accessible and affordable medical care for the people of Guam, according to a statement from the Office of the Governor of Guam. She paved the way for young women to follow in her footsteps and strive for further education. Dr. Cruz was an internal medicine doctor who worked in the emergency room at the Guam Memorial Hospital for more than 30 years.
She is survived by her husband, Dr. Robert Haddock, their two children, Ray and Michelle, and their seven grandchildren. Our heartfelt condolences go out to the family of Dr. Cruz at this difficult time.
Dr. Cruz’s picture was provided by her loving daughter in law, Carla Torres Haddock. Dr. Haddock is a doctor of nursing practice and nurse practitioner at Guam Regional Medical City. About seven hours after her mother in law died, Dr. Haddock posted the following memorial to Dr. Cruz:
“At 1:25am, my mother in law, Guam’s first female Chamorro physician passed peacefully at home surrounded by her family. I asked her to pick any day but today but in true OC fashion, everything was on her terms. She allowed me the honor to bring her home and pronounce her. She passed wearing the same gown I had when I delivered Jose exactly one year ago today. Many are wondering about her passing. One week ago, we noticed her weak and then we got the diagnosis of small cell carcinoma, lung. It went very quickly and in a week, we realized that the Lord wanted her more. Rest now Mama. I will continue to live each day carrying out your mission of helping the island. Hu guaiya hao.”
Statements from the GMHA staff, executives, and Board of Trustees as well as from Governor Lou Leon Guerrero and Lieutenant Governor Josh Tenorio, follow:
1 Comments
Herb & Annie S.
10/11/2023 at 7:10 AM
I was seen by Dr. O.C. in the emergency twice. She is one tough woman. Though she is a great physician. Our condolence to the family. May she rest in peace.