Valley Baptist Health System invites you to celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month with us. Lasting from mid-September through October, Hispanic Heritage Month is an opportunity to explore the vibrant cultures, enduring traditions and impactful contributions of Hispanic Americans.

Every day, across our organization, teammates with different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives collaborate to deliver high-quality care and services. Our collective knowledge and strong teamwork drive the challenging work we do.

During this month, we will share the stories of members of our Valley Baptist Health System family who play vital roles in our mission to provide compassionate, award-winning care to our communities. We continue our series with Luis “Bob” Bermudez, BSN, RN, Director of PCCU & Stroke Unit at Valley Baptist-Harlingen.

Luis “Bob” Bermudez, BSN, RN, Director of PCCU & Stroke Unit at Valley Baptist-Harlingen

How does this year’s National Hispanic Heritage Month theme – “Together, We Are More / Unidos, Somos Más” – resonate with you?

"Together, We Are More" resonates deeply with me because our greatest strength has always lived in our community. Growing up Hispanic teaches you early on that family and belonging extend far beyond your immediate household. There is a deep, profound pride in seeing others succeed, because one person's triumph represents a victory for all of us.

Even across distinct backgrounds and traditions within the broader Hispanic culture, we share a common bond rooted in lifting each other up. To me, this theme serves as a reminder that we are at our best when we stand together, celebrate our collective milestones, and recognize that our shared unity multiplies what we can achieve.

How has your heritage or personal experience influenced how you approach your work?

My approach to my work is built on the foundation of sacrifice, perseverance, and relentless grit laid by my parents. My father was a migrant worker as a child who went on to serve as a Marine and work across almost every trade imaginable, from carpentry and mechanics to shrimping. Through him, I learned the dignity of hard work and the determination to provide.

My mother embodied perseverance in its purest form. As a single mother raising two children while battling cancer, she pursued her degree with fierce resolve from her hospital bed, ultimately earning her bachelor's degree posthumously. Losing her while I was still in elementary school left a mark on my life but witnessing her dedication deeply engrained in me the importance of higher education no matter the obstacles.

Her courage taught me that no barrier is insurmountable and no task is too hard. Because of the example she and my father set, I approach every responsibility with the mindset that there are no excuses, only the opportunity to lead by example, serve others, and keep moving forward.