ORLANDO, Fla. – It's been a tough couple of days for employees at OneBlood. They're grieving the loss of their co-worker Rodolfo Ayala Ayala. The 33-year-old was killed during the Pulse nightclub shooting.
"He was a key member of our team. He was important to us here in the blood center. We have a lifesaving mission to take care of people every day and Rody believed in that," recalls Kelley Gollert, the Directordirector of manufacturing for OneBlood.
Recommended Videos
She and a couple of his co-workers shared stories about Rody. She said he was a biologics technician and was responsible for processing blood donations.
His job didn't define him, though. He was also known for his fun-loving attitude and big heart.
"He was the sweetest, most genuine person, cared for everyone and would do anything for you. He will be sorely missed here," said Gollert.
She said most of his co-workers haven't taken any time off to grieve. Instead, they're fighting through the tears and continuing to work.
Matt Simons worked closely with Rody and said he's determined to keep his legacy alive. Simons also said the world lost a great man.
"We're going to keep his spirit alive and you see glimpses of him in me right now and all of these people and in everybody. He's still here. I mean that," said Simons.