Beverly Nurses’ Candlelight Vigil and Food Drive Shines a Light On Patient Care

January 2012

On December 15, Beverly RNs held a candlelight vigil to shine a light on patient care and collect food for those in need in Montebello. Supporters also included UNAC/UHCP RNs from St. Francis and Kaiser, as well as representatives for US Congresswomen Grace Napolitano and Linda Sanchez, and California State Assembly Majority Leader Charles Calderon.

“Beverly Hospital had a choice,” said Susan Justin, ICU RN, at the vigil. “They could have sat down with their nurses and addressed the issues. Instead they took the money that should go towards patient care and handed it off to a pricey attorney. It’s not too late to turn it around. That’s why we’re out here tonight.”

“I’m a resident of Montebello, a member of UNAC/UHCP, and a St. Francis RN. Having experienced recent negotiations, I came here to do whatever I can to support the nurses at Beverly,” said Marilen Castanon, RN, a member of the community who spoke at the vigil in support of the Beverly Registered Nurses.

UNAC/UHCP RN Teresa Mulroy from Kaiser Sunset was another vocal advocate of the nurses at the vigil, saying, “I’m here to support the Beverly RNs. They deserve fair pay, decent working conditions and decent benefits. I will do whatever I can to support their cause…to get what they deserve for the work they do.”