Kaiser Permanente and the Alliance of Health Care Unions
LMPartnership.org

Humans of Partnership

Woman wearing a white lab coat and hijab at a check-in kiosk
“I had a patient who was very sad and upset about possibly contracting COVID-19. He explained that he had a gun at home and was thinking of killing himself. I was shocked and scared for him, but I told him to have faith and peace. I referred him to Social Services. A few days later he came back and brought me a flower and a card. He told me that nobody had ever talked to him so beautifully, and it gave him hope to live. I think one of the best things we can do right now is give people hope.”
Enas El-Mobdy, lab technician, UFCW Local 21 (Washington)
man in a face mask, giving a thumbs up
“Families are incredibly anxious. There’s a lot of misinformation out there, and it’s our job to allay their fears. You just listen to them, give them the facts, and tell them ‘we’re here for you.’ Keep a brave face. Calmness is contagious. If you remain calm, everyone else will remain calm with you.”
Paul Ciriacks, registered nurse, UNAC/UHCP (Southern California)
Female health care manager wearing a white lab coat, standing in front of a banner that says, "Not all superheros wear capes."
“There was a lot of anxiety when we had our first COVID-19 patient. As days go on, and we have more and more patients, staff has accepted the reality that this is our new normal. We huddle on every shift, and I share the most up-to-date information I have. There are a lot of changes, so we’re constantly adapting and flexing to follow new procedures and recommendations. I draw strength from my staff, and we support each other. I also remind staff to take care of themselves. We all need to get rest, eat healthy and exercise. If you feel like you need more support, reach out to EAP. Everyone still has fears — that does not go away. I’m scared, but I’m also really proud of my staff.”
Brenda Mopas, manager, medical-surgical unit 5 EWA, Moanalua Medical Center (Hawaii)
“Our team of physicians, nurses, and amazing staff members have all come together in one big support team like no other time before. The current situation has helped break down barriers. We are all equal, and we have learned to jump in and help each other without hesitation. Knowing I am not alone in this crisis makes all the difference to me. Our patients are experiencing anxiety, and so are we. By always being kind to one another, we can meet this moment and the ones that follow.”
Andrew Perea, registered nurse, UFCW Local 1996 (Georgia)
“As a nurse of 44 years, I can say this is something that we all trained for — to be on the frontlines and to make a difference for people who are sick. This is our chance to rise to the very best of who we are and what we can do. I don’t think any of us thought in our lifetime that we would be part of a pandemic. Now we’re living it, and we’re seeing some of the most incredible work, care, and selflessness coming from our nurses at the medical centers.”
Pam Brodersen, certified nurse practitioner, UNAC/UHCP (Southern California)
portrait of a man, smiling
“I spent the morning with an elderly patient who was grateful to be seen as the clinics are closed. He questioned if he should even be out in public but needed follow-up after a recent eye surgery. After the exam, he asked if he could chat for a few minutes because he wanted to talk about his deceased son who was a scientist. I realized I’ve taken these precious interactions for granted. Usually my schedule is packed with back-to-back exams. But today, I listened and acknowledged this proud father and what his son had accomplished. This 84-year-old man was seen and heard. His vision and eyesight were secondary. I love my job.”
John Corpus, staff optometrist, IFPTE/ESC Local 20 (Northern California)

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