Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month by reading two of our residents’ perspectives below!
Amanda Lemus, MD
PGY-1 Family Medicine Resident
To me, Hispanic Heritage Month is about celebrating diversity and sharing our culture with others. My parents immigrated from Honduras and have raised me to be in touch with my roots. This month reminds me of the progress we have made to become a unified community where we can celebrate differences and bond over our similarities!
My background led me to the medical field because I saw a need for doctors that could understand Spanish-speaking patients and their background. I hope to become a physician that the community can come to for health education, treatment and support.
Ruben Ruiz Vega, MD
PGY-3 Internal Medicine Resident
To me, Hispanic Heritage Month is about celebrating diversity and sharing our culture with others. My parents immigrated from Honduras and have raised me to be in touch with my roots. This month reminds me of the progress we have made to become a unified community where we can celebrate differences and bond over our similarities!
My background led me to the medical field because I saw a need for doctors that could understand Spanish-speaking patients and their background. I hope to become a physician that the community can come to for health education, treatment and support.
As Hispanic Heritage Month unfolds, I find myself reflecting on the significance of this annual celebration and the profound impact it has had on my life and aspirations. I wanted to take a moment to share with you what Hispanic Heritage Month means to me and how my Mexican heritage has inspired me to pursue a career in medicine.
Hispanic Heritage Month, which runs from September 15 to October 15, is a time when we celebrate the rich and diverse contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans to our nation’s culture, history and society. It serves as a reminder of the incredible achievements of individuals who have overcome challenges and made lasting positive impacts in various fields. For me, this month is not only an opportunity to celebrate the collective accomplishments of Hispanics but also a time for personal reflection.
Growing up in a Mexican household, I was immersed in vibrant traditions, values and stories. My parents and grandparents instilled in me a deep appreciation for our Mexican heritage, passing down the importance of family, hard work and resilience. The warmth of our culture, the delicious aromas of homemade meals and the joyful gatherings during holidays left an indelible mark on my heart.
As I pursued my education and prepared for a career in medicine, I found that my Mexican heritage gave me a unique perspective on healthcare. I understood the importance of cultural competence and the need to address health disparities within the Hispanic community. My heritage became my driving force, motivating me to work tirelessly to bridge gaps in healthcare access and deliver quality care to underserved populations.
Today, as I journey towards completing my final year of Internal Medicine residency, I carry with me the values, traditions and resilience of my Mexican heritage. I am dedicated to advocating for equitable healthcare, promoting preventive measures within our community and breaking down barriers to access. I am committed to ensuring that every Hispanic individual I encounter in my medical practice receives the care and attention they deserve.
Hispanic Heritage Month serves as a poignant reminder of the beautiful tapestry of cultures that enriches our nation. My Mexican heritage has inspired me to embark on a path as a physician with a mission to make a meaningful impact in the lives of others. I am deeply grateful for the cultural treasures that have shaped me, and I look forward to improving our society through healthcare. I am excited to continue learning and growing, and I hope to honor my heritage by making a positive difference in the world.
To learn more about GME’s diversity, equity and inclusion program, visit ngmcgme.org/dei.