An ocean between them, and a calling that reunited them

When Maricar Olsen left the Philippines seven years ago to begin a new life in the United States, she knew her path would be filled with both opportunity and sacrifice.

As the oldest of seven siblings, Maricar had carried the responsibility of caring for her family. It was a role that became even more important after their mother left when they were young.

“I stood as a mother to my siblings,” she said. “I worked two jobs to help my husband here and to send money home for their education.”

Among those she supported was her younger sister, Ermeliza Ortiz, who was just beginning college when Maricar moved to the U.S.

“She’s always been like a second mother to me,” said Ermeliza. “Even from across the world, she was the one who encouraged me to study hard, to dream and to never give up.”

Through those years apart, their bond remained strong, sustained by long-distance calls, faith and the shared hope that one day they would be together again.

That dream came true this fall when Ermeliza joined AdventHealth Minneola’s laboratory team, which is just minutes away from her sister Maricar, who works at AdventHealth Clermont ER. The two facilities are closely connected, collaborating as part of AdventHealth’s expanding network of care in South Lake County.

“It was a full-circle moment,” said Ermeliza. “After seven years apart, being reunited with my sister while also beginning my career at AdventHealth – it felt like God’s perfect timing.”

For Maricar, the reunion was equally emotional.

“I still can’t believe it,” she said. “AdventHealth became the bridge that reunited us. My coworkers even prayed for her during our team devotionals. Now, I get to see her every day and not just on the phone.”

Both sisters share a passion for laboratory science and caring for people. Maricar, who holds certifications from both the Philippines and the U.S., has built a rewarding career at AdventHealth and plans to pursue her master’s degree with the organization’s support.

“AdventHealth helps you grow,” she said. “They care not just about your work but your mental health, your education and your future.”

Ermeliza, who graduated from Medina College in the Philippines, says her sister’s stories about AdventHealth’s mission inspired her long before she applied.

“She would tell me how faith-based and mission-driven AdventHealth is,” she recalled. “When I learned about the mission of ‘extending the healing ministry of Christ’, I knew I wanted to be part of it.”

That dream became a reality thanks in large part to Radha Dit, laboratory manager at AdventHealth Winter Garden. “Ms. Radha took the time to look at my application and gave me the opportunity to be part of this organization,” Ermeliza said. “She became the way for me to be here, and I’m so grateful for that.”

Now living under the same roof, the sisters say they’re cherishing every moment together.

“It feels like home,” Maricar said. “I’m inspired and more determined every day because my sister is here.”

They hope their stories will inspire others, especially those separated from loved ones in pursuit of new opportunities. “With faith and perseverance, anything is possible,” said Ermeliza. “AdventHealth made our reunion possible, and we will always be grateful for that.”