Hispanic Heritage Month is recognized each year from Sept. 15 through Oct. 15 to celebrate the histories, cultures and contributions of those whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America.
In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, we spoke with Rocio Andrade Vera, clinical nurse in the hematology/oncology clinic and co-chair of the voces employee resource group (ERG) at Children’s Minnesota, to learn more about her role, involvement with voces and what Hispanic Heritage Month means to her.
Get to know Rocio!
Tell us about your role and what do you love the most about it?
“I work in the cancer and blood disorders clinic. I have been in this role for almost 4 years! There, I am a nurse case manager and primarily work with kids who have been diagnosed with leukemia or lymphoma. My favorite thing about this role is how much I learn from my patients about strength and resilience. Kids are really the toughest humans, and I get to witness that every day. I also love that I get to work with amazing nurses, providers, therapists and advocates. We’re a great team and our patients deserve that.”
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
“Throughout my career as a nurse, I have been taught many things. One thing that sticks with me is the importance of trust. As a nurse, trust is not something that I should expect from my patients right away. Instead, it’s something that is earned over time and through interactions.”
Why did you decide to be part of the voces ERG?
“I decided to join the ERG because I don’t always get to work with people who look like me or share my background. That can get a little isolating, and at times, might feel discouraging. I wanted to make connections with other Latinos. Whether they work as nurses, pharmacy staff, or housekeeping, they all share immigrant stories that connect us. I also wanted to find ways to connect with our Latino community. We have attended many health fairs and outreach events that have done just that.
Do you have a favorite memory with the voces ERG?
“My favorite memory is attending the CLUES Fiesta in St. Paul. We helped provide vaccine information in Spanish. People in the community had great questions and we were able to open up about myths surrounding vaccines. We were also able to connect with families that do not have health care services and provide them with information on where to go and who to reach out to. That is what health advocacy is all about!”
What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you?
“To me, Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to feel proud of our culture and our ancestors. It is a time to celebrate our traditions and a time to remember the impact immigrants have had in history and in this country. Growing up, being Hispanic didn’t feel like something I should celebrate. Instead, it was best to try to blend in.”
How are you celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month this year?
“During this month, I am honoring the younger version of myself who was too shy to speak Spanish around others. I am doing this by forming connections with Spanish speaking youth and reminding them Spanish is beautiful, and so is being Hispanic.”
Work at Children’s Minnesota
We’re celebrating 100 years of caring for kids. And we’re gearing up for the next 100. That kind of devotion requires a powerhouse team, health care professionals with talent, experience and heart. If that sounds like you, apply to join our team today!
