68-year-old Roberto Mata leaves hospital after 47 day fight with COVID-19

After a 47 day fight with COVID-19, 68-year-old Roberto Mata was cheered as he left The Hospitals of Providence Memorial Campus on Wednesday, May 27.  Staff lined the hallways and clapped for him as he was wheeled out to his waiting family who had not seen him since he arrived to the hospital.

“It was a very emotional day to be reunited with our Dad and to be able to see and hug him,” said Chris Mata, son of Roberto Mata.  “With how sick he was, there were many days we didn’t know if he was going to make it, but we kept our faith in God knowing he was in the best care.”

On Wednesday, Mata was wheeled out of the hospital on a stretcher where he was greeted by his wife of 49 years Mary Alice Mata, waiting for her beloved husband.  Mary Alice remained inside the truck and the two embraced through the glass window of their truck with their hands palm to palm.

“Mr. Mata is an incredible story of strength and courage with the mentality to always continue fighting,” said Mark Phillips, Chief Nursing Officer for The Hospital of Providence Memorial Campus.  “Moments like these are the greatest victories for our nurses, physicians and healthcare providers.  To see Mr. Mata reunited with his family was a very moving moment for our entire team. “

Mata was discharged to a waiting ambulance where he was later taken to The Hospitals of Providence Sierra Campus Inpatient Rehabilitation Unit, where he will continue the healing process over the next several weeks with therapy and rehab to regain his strength.

“We are eternally grateful to the entire team of nurses, physicians, therapists and healthcare providers for bringing him back to us,” said Chris Mata.  “Thank you to theses heroes who have given us many more days and time with our Dad.”