May is Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage (AAPI) Month, an annual celebration that recognizes the historical and cultural contributions of people of Asian and Pacific Islander descent to the United States. At Centra, this month serves as a time to celebrate the stories of our AAPI team members, including the Flores family—a tight-knit Filipino family with deep roots at Lynchburg General Hospital.
Of the seven Flores siblings, four currently work at Centra, continuing a family legacy in healthcare. Luis Flores, LPN, is based at Stroobants Cardiology Center. Maria Flores, RN, works on B-41 (Oncology Unit). Ferdinand Flores is a mental health technician in the EmPATH Unit, and Jane Flores-Tester, RN, works on B-31 (Surgical Unit) and part-time on the Adult Psychiatric Unit at Virginia Baptist Hospital.
Their eldest brother, Carlito, retired after 34 years as a psychiatric nurse, and their mother, Anita, also worked in Centra’s Supply Department, so it’s safe to say that their connection to Centra began decades ago. The siblings describe working together as meaningful, offering support, encouragement and sometimes, shared meals
“Working alongside my family gives me a sense of security and moral support. Challenges that come with work and at home, I know I have someone to talk to and lean on,” shared Maria.
Luis Flores, LPN
Stroobants Cardiology Center at LGH | 20 Years at Centra
What inspired you to go into healthcare?
“Our eldest brother, Carlito, told us about his experience serving a whole community and how people appreciated his selfless work as a nurse and his kindness in caring for people. This had a great impact on me, that nursing is a noble career.”
What is something you would like to share about the Asian American & Pacific Islander experience?
“Asians are a close-knit family where they support each other, look after the family welfare, especially while taking care of our younger siblings and the elderly members of our family. Asians are dedicated, have strong work ethics and respect authority.”
Maria Flores, RN
B-41 (Oncology Unit) at LGH | 25 Years at Centra
Can you share a bit about your family’s cultural background and heritage?
“The Flores Family is from the northern part of the Philippines. We are seven children, and five of us live in Lynchburg. We are a close-knit family which is a part of our heritage. We love to get together, eat together and pray together. We love to travel, visit and experience different places together as a family.”
Are there any cultural values or traditions you feel align with your work in healthcare?
“Filipinos' resilience and adaptability are fundamental values that we learn from our parents, and thus, we carry these values into our workplace as healthcare workers. We are resilient to adversity and able to adapt to new environments.
Ferdinand Flores, Mental Health Technician
EmPATH Unit at LGH | 25 Years at Centra
What inspired you to go into healthcare?
“Growing up in a family that mostly worked in healthcare greatly influenced me. My mama and eldest brother guided and inspired me to pursue a similar path. Their dedication to helping others shaped my aspirations and values in ways I continue to cherish which I have also shared with my three children.”
How does it feel to work alongside your family members in the same healthcare system?
“I feel truly fortunate to collaborate with a family member in my work. This unique partnership allows us to connect on a deeper level, sharing our personal experiences and insights. Together, we find great joy in the compassionate care we provide to our patients, fostering a sense of teamwork that enhances our ability to support those in need.”
Jane Flores-Tester, RN
B-31 (Surgical Unit) at LGH & Mundy 3 (Adult Psych Unit) at VBH | 25 Years at Centra
Do you incorporate aspects of your culture into your everyday life or work environment?
“I consistently make it my mission to provide the highest level of care to my patients. I believe that respecting and embracing individuals with mental illness is vital for their journey toward healing. In the surgical unit, I dedicate myself fully to supporting my patients in every possible way. This commitment goes beyond the simple administration of medications; it involves investing time to truly understand their unique stories and engaging in heartfelt conversations that can uplift their spirits. Each interaction is an opportunity to build trust and foster a therapeutic environment which I consider essential for their healing.”
Is there anything you'd like others to better understand or appreciate about the AAPI experience in healthcare or our community?
“Filipinos from all around the globe embody a remarkable spirit characterized by deep respect for others, unwavering dedication to hard work and a strong sense of teamwork. Their resilience shines through in the face of adversity, showcasing their ability to bounce back and thrive. Above all, Filipinos have a zest for life, embracing joy and laughter while cherishing moments spent with family and friends. This vibrant culture is defined by a love for celebration and a profound appreciation for togetherness, making every gathering a memorable occasion filled with warmth and camaraderie.”
“Centra is an exemplary organization that actively acknowledges and supports diverse ethnicities within the healthcare field. This commitment enhances cultural competency and fosters an inclusive environment that benefits both patients and staff. I am grateful to have worked for Centra for 25 years.”
