A ViM STORY—Communications Director Nelson Fernandez’s personal connection to our work

I am both honored and excited to introduce myself to you as a part of the Volunteers in Medicine Berkshires family. As one of the newest members of this incredible team, I find a deep, personal connection to the work we do here, especially as an immigrant myself. 

In July of 1969, my family and I left Cuba for Manhattan. I spoke no English. But with the sponge-like brain of a six-year-old and a few of Hell’s Kitchen neighbors to play with (when Hell’s Kitchen was really Hell’s Kitchen), it wasn’t long before I grew to love my new home. That winter was my first experience with snow, the blizzard of ‘69, which I had long dreamed about as a child growing up in Cuba. 

My journey with healthcare and the immigrant experience is profoundly personal. When I was in eighth grade, my mother was diagnosed with breast cancer. During that turbulent period, I found myself in the daunting role of interpreter between her and her doctors. The experience was terrifying, navigating a complex medical world on behalf of my mother who felt both gratitude and guilt that her son was burdened with bridging the language barrier. 

Everything changed when we met an oncologist at Memorial Sloan Kettering who was not just fluent in Spanish, but also shared our Cuban heritage. His ability to communicate with my mother in her native language brought immense relief and a sense of understanding that was previously missing. This pivotal moment highlighted the critical importance of culturally and linguistically sensitive healthcare. I continue to be grateful for that doctor who communicated in a way that my mother not only understood, but also made her feel seen and heard.  

Today, as a part of Volunteers in Medicine, in addition to my role as Director of Communications and Public Affairs, I continue to serve as an interpreter for our patients every Thursday. This role is more than just translating words; it’s about conveying hope, understanding, and compassion and a way for me to honor the memory of my mother who would have been a fierce, passionate supporter of ViM if she were here today. 

Our work at ViM goes beyond medical care; it’s about building a community where everyone, irrespective of their background, feels seen, heard, and cared for. As I join this journey with you, I am inspired by the stories of those we serve and am reminded daily of the profound impact that empathy and understanding can have on our patients. 

Thank you for everything you do in support of our community of patients, volunteers and staff. Together, we continue to move one step closer toward a community where everyone has an equal opportunity for a healthy life.