March 2024 Employee of the Month: Terminal Operations Agent assists elderly traveler with Parkinson’s disease
Miami-Dade Aviation Department Terminal Operations Senior Agent Jenny Rodriguez was on duty one afternoon last month near Miami International Airport’s gate F23 when she encountered an elderly passenger dealing with a very challenging situation.
The gentleman, who had been waiting alone to board a flight to Cuba for hours since early that morning, told Rodriguez that he had Parkinson’s disease and needed assistance not only to get to the restroom but also inside the restroom. The wheelchair attendant who was called to assist told him that she could not help him once he was inside the restroom.
After calling the passenger’s airline and MIA’s police and fire rescue stations but not receiving a quick enough response, Rodriguez recognized the urgency and delicate nature of the situation and decided to help the passenger herself.
With the help of her supervisor, Rodriguez and the airline staff asked other passengers in the area if anyone had an adult diaper. She finally found a diaper, protective pads for the wheelchair, and gloves. Together, they helped the gentleman get to the restroom and maintain his dignity and privacy while inside.
In a situation that required urgent attention and compassionate action, Jenny’s quick thinking and unwavering dedication to help others shone brightly. Her actions today reflect not only her exceptional character but also serve as a powerful reminder of the impact that empathy and kindness can have in our daily interactions.
For her caring and compassionate actions, Rodriguez was named MIA’s March 2024 Employee of the Month.
Miami International Airport, America’s busiest airport for international freight and the second busiest for international passengers, is receiving an unprecedented investment of $7 billion in capital improvements and $1.7 billion in maintenance upgrades. MIA offers more flights to Latin America and the Caribbean than any other U.S. airport and is also the leading economic engine for Miami-Dade County and the state of Florida, generating business revenue of $31.9 billion and approximately 60 percent of all international visitors to Florida annually.
To request materials in accessible format, Sign Language Interpreters, CART services and/or any accommodation to participate in any Miami-Dade Aviation Department (MDAD) public meetings and events please email the ADA Office at ADAcoordinator@miami-airport.com or call the office in 305-876-7747 five days in advance to initiate your request. Persons who are deaf or hard of hearing may also call 711 (Florida Relay Service).