Iris Ruvalcaba sharing a ceremonial blanket with Thomas Beaumont, MD, neurosurgeon at UC San Diego Health. Photo used with permission of the Ruvalcaba family
At 46, Iris Ruvalcaba’s world was turned upside down in an instant. It started with a rush to the hospital. She had been feeling unwell, but nothing prepared her for the diagnosis: a pituitary gland tumor. The tumor had grown behind each of Ruvalcaba's eyes, leading to symptoms such as severe headaches and eye pain.
"I have two kids, and I was going to fight until my last breath to be with them a little longer," said Ruvalcaba, emphasizing her determination to prioritize her health for the sake of her family.
More than 10,000 pituitary tumors are diagnosed in the United States each year, the majority of which are noncancerous pituitary adenomas — the type Ruvalcaba was diagnosed with. Only a small percentage, known as pituitary carcinoma, are considered cancerous.
Thomas Beaumont, MD, PhD, assistant professor in the Department of Neurological Surgery at University of California San Diego School of Medicine and neurosurgeon at UC San Diego Health, became Ruvalcaba’s neurosurgeon after she was transferred from a different hospital system for more specialized care.
“Iris had a benign tumor, one of the most common that occur in the head,” Beaumont said. “While it had an unusual appearance on the MRI, extensive pre-surgery evaluations, thankfully, showed no other concerning findings.”
During surgery at Jacobs Medical Center at UC San Diego Health, Beaumont was able to remove the majority of the benign tumor, leaving a small portion that was wrapped around her carotid artery, in an area called the cavernous sinus, that was too risky of a location to remove. The surgery involved an endoscopic endonasal approach (EEA), a minimally invasive surgical technique used to access the brain and surrounding structures through the nasal passages, which relieved Ruvalcaba of her headaches and eye pain.
“What is quite notable is Iris herself and her culture,” said Beaumont.
Ruvalcaba proudly embraces her Native American heritage, finding strength and meaning in the rich traditions of her ancestors. Her connection to her culture is deeply personal, and when faced with a brain tumor, she felt that her journey deserved to be honored through this sacred lens.
Proudly serving as a member of the environmental services team. Photo credit: UC San Diego Health
While in the intensive care unit (ICU), Tania Spivey, RN, made a significant impact on Ruvalcaba’s patient experience with her exceptional care and support, giving her extra motivation to persevere.
“Nursing is such a rewarding profession because we have the opportunity to support patients during some of their most challenging moments, and it’s incredibly fulfilling to see them not only recover but thrive,” Spivey said. “Being a part of a patient’s care team, like Iris, is a privilege and knowing that I’ve made a positive impact on someone’s life is what drives me every day.”
Ruvalcaba also fondly remembers the kindness and support she received from the environmental services (EVS) team. They play a vital role in creating a safe, clean and comforting environment for team members, patients, and guests, ensuring that every corner of the facility fosters healing and hope. Their presence made a significant difference, reminding her that compassionate care extends beyond clinical staff.
“The EVS staff were always so warm and welcoming,” Ruvalcaba recalled, noting how their smiles and dedication provided her with comfort while at the hospital.
During recovery, Ruvalcaba told her husband, “I want to work at UC San Diego Health.”
After seeing a job opening to join the EVS team at the hospital system, Ruvalcaba immediately applied and was offered the position.
Because of her sincere gratitude for the care she received and appreciation of the EVS team, Ruvalcaba committed herself to her new role with the same dedication she had experienced as a patient.
Two years into her position with EVS, Ruvalcaba cleaned with purpose and pride. Her colleagues marvel at her commitment, as she sees her work not just as a job but as a testament to her gratefulness.
“It was great working with Iris in EVS — she was very thorough and knew exactly what she was doing,” said Erik Thomas, day porter at UC San Diego Health. “She didn’t just clean spaces; she created an atmosphere where people felt welcome.”
Ruvalcaba pictured with her colleagues from left to right: Adrian Duarte, Natalie Theamer, Jay Santoro, Sabrina Hernandez at UC San Diego Health Primary Care in Rancho Bernardo. Photo credit: UC San Diego Health
Her journey continues to evolve. Her perseverance and remarkable recovery led to a promotion to a patient service representative position at UC San Diego Health Primary Care in Rancho Bernardo. Her infectious optimism tied with her personal experience as a patient have made her a beacon of hope for others. When patients ask why she’s so happy, she shares her story, hoping to bring ease and reassurance.
One of her most heartfelt moments came when she was able to connect with a patient who had just received a brain tumor diagnosis.
“I don’t know what type of tumor you have or where you are in life, but you are not alone,” she told them. “UC San Diego Health is the best place to receive care and I am living proof.”
Ruvalcaba has annual appointments with Beaumont at Moores Cancer Center at UC San Diego Health to monitor the remaining small portion of the benign tumor, which has not shown any signs of cancer or growth in the past three years.
“Iris’ story is a powerful testament to resilience and the impact of compassion,” Beaumont said. “From a patient fighting for her life to a committed health care worker inspiring others, Iris continues to shine brightly, demonstrating that even in the face of daunting challenges, courage and determination can lead to extraordinary transformations.”
According to the 2024-2025 U.S. News & World Report “Best Hospitals” survey, UC San Diego Health ranked No. 1 in San Diego and received “Honor Roll” designation, a distinction awarded only to 20 hospitals in the national for exceptional care. Neurology and neurosurgery care ranked 22nd and cancer ranked 42nd out of more than 4,500 hospitals nationwide.
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