GREENVILLE — EverHeart Hospice recently hired Jeralayne Ruiz, a board certified music therapist, and Sara Neal, a social worker, to its Hospice Care Team.

Ruiz grew up in Long Island, New York, and moved to Ohio to attend Ohio University for undergraduate and graduate school. There, she earned two master’s degrees, one in music therapy and one in voice performance/pedagogy.

In addition to music therapy, Ruiz is also a classically trained singer and has performed in several operas and musicals, even performing on stage with the Rolling Stones in 2015.

When asked what inspired her to work at EverHeart Hospice, Ruiz said that her predecessor, Carrie Whatley, “always spoke so fondly of the EverHeart team. The supportive network that EverHeart seems to have made me excited to join the team!”

A few of Ruiz’s favorite hobbies include watching movies, listening to music on vinyl and visiting museums.

“It is a gift and privilege to share music, moments, and memories with patients and families at end-of-life. Being able to honor and celebrate a life is so special,” Ruiz said in response to her motivation for working in the hospice field.

Neal attended Wright State University and earned a bachelor’s in social work (BSW) and a license in social work (LSW) through the Counselor, Social Worker and Marriage and Family Therapist Board (CSWMFT). She has seven years of social service experience and was led to EverHeart while searching for a position that was part-time and close to home. She wanted to work for an organization that held high values and practiced standards, and she was interested in working in hospice.

“It’s rewarding to help patients and their families find peace and closure while assisting them with their needs,” Neal said.

Neal enjoys cooking, baking, DIY crafting and trivia in her free time. She and her husband have a daughter, two dogs and cats.

For more information about joining the team at EverHeart Hospice, visit www.everhearthospice.org to view current employment opportunities.