Nurse Raney Dixon retired at the end of December after more than 10 years at San Quentin.
Members of the medical staff and co-workers of Dixon had this to say about the retiree:
Beverly Allison: Ms. Dixon is a very caring person, and she has really cared about the well-being of the inmates. I have known her from the first day that she started. I know for sure she is one that you don’t mess with. When it comes to her job duties, she takes that very seriously. So, please know what you are talking about when you tell her something.
Nurse Dixon in the Lower Yard
gymnasium during the Health Fair
RN Manny Aldip: The time that I’ve known and worked with Raney – almost nine years – she has shared with me some of her experiences from more than 30 years as an RN, especially her experiences here at San Quentin. This I truly appreciate as it has improved my overall understanding of the patient population that we are caring for. Throughout the past several years, I’ve come to know a wonderful, smart, courageous and fair woman who sticks to her guns; goes by the book when it comes to her nursing practice; but, always opens her heart and her mind to people who need a shoulder or someone to listen. She will be missed, not only by the staff, who have had the opportunity to interact with her, but also by the people and patients she has helped and encouraged. Raney, enjoy your retirement and the good things that come with it.
Marielle Almares: It has been a pleasure getting to know Raney not only as a co-worker but as a friend. Along with her passion and dedication to fairness and proper care of patients, she has a good heart and always puts others first. Thank you for all your advice, support and encouragement. You will truly be missed!
Rosemary Smith: Ms. Dixon is such a kindhearted person. Working in the appeals department with her was such a joy. Whenever I had a question or needed assistance, she was always willing to help. I am going to miss her, and her beautiful smile. Wishing you much luck in the next chapter of your life. May God continue to bless you.
Angel Llano: Raney is a patient co-worker and focused RN. She does her best to help her patients and co-workers. Congratulations and good luck!
RN Sue Patrick: Always available and supportive of her fellow nurses. Helping many of us through her wise experience and being an SEIU steward. She has been a very strong presence in SEIU. She takes many hours of her own time to counsel and learn. I have great respect for Raney. Not to mention her daily beautiful smile and happy attitude. She is an awesome nurse, kind and considerate to all inmates. She is a wonderful cook also. I will miss her, but she has earned her retirement! I wish her all the best!
LVN Stephen Bale: Each end brings a new beginning, but you will be missed!
Lori Scharf: I have not known Raney very long, but I feel like I have known her forever. She is warm and caring – the perfect person to be the patient advocate. San Quentin won’t be the same without her.
RN Nina Podolsky: I’ve known you since the day I was searching for a friendly shoulder to cry on, warm heart to feel for me and cool head to help me with my problems. You have always been so patient, and always had time to listen to my problems, no matter big or small. All these years I’ve known you, you have been a great advocate for your co-workers and for patients. You are my model nurse, model friend and I know that I’m so lucky that you are present in my life. It is really a privilege to work with you, and I will sure miss our discussions, laughs, food and more. And, there is no goodbye from me because I hope that we will continue this great relationship; after all, they are building more restaurants in Emeryville.
Correctional Officer Stubs: The best nurse I’ve had the pleasure of working with.
Prisoners show their respect:
Isaiah Thompson-Bonilla CHSB Porter/Clerk: I will always remember Ms. Dixon as the person of reason. She always smiled and spoke with a kind sobering voice. She will be remembered for her wealth of wisdom.
Ms. Dixon is a good person who always walks around with a smile on her face and ready to talk about those Raiders. It is a true blessing to see a woman who smiles and enjoys what she does. Thank you, Ms. Dixon, for your smile and your great work; also, for not judging me because of where I am but as who I’ve become.
Anthony Ammons, CHSB Porter: Ms. Dixon always stood strong in delivering bedside skills and coordinating with multiple agents securing safe transportations of inmate/patients. As a steward, she has taught me the value in being courageous. She resonates Maya Angelou’s words, “One isn’t necessarily born with courage, but one is born with potential. Without courage, we cannot practice any other virtue with consistency. We can’t be kind, true, merciful, generous or honest.” For this, I will always be grateful to her. Her ability to express what was true and right — knowing insurmountable work would be attached — but because it was the “right thing to do” has persevered in many of us. Ms. Dixon is among the best nurses I have met in four states I have worked in over 35 years. These principles enable nurses to secure the receivership’s goals with the care much needed by our inmate/patients. Thank you Ms. Dixon for your patience and kindness.
