Broadening Cultural Horizons at LVPG–Hazleton

Edwin Mieses is a trained medical interpreter who works with LVPG–Hazleton. During Hispanic Heritage Month, he embraces his own culture and celebrates those he interacts with every day in his role. Here are his thoughts about his life and work experiences:

The reality of our time is that we, as a nation, are a composite of varying cultural similarities and dissimilarities. As people of the world and of this country, it’s important to realize that we need to learn how to get along with each other and live together in peace.

Working at LVPG–Hazleton has been a cornucopia of cultural experience across the board. As I interact with people from different Latino countries, it has made me more aware of the rich heritage I share with them.

The confluence of the Spanish, Italian, Dominican and Puerto Rican cultures in my family’s history has given me the ability to interact with the many Latino groups we serve at LVPG. As a result, I am better able to comprehend what the patient is attempting to convey to the doctor when they visit.

As a pastor in my community, I provide interpretation in the church classroom and pulpit. I never thought I would use these skills in the medical field, but it has proven to be a satisfying way to give back to my community. In my line of work as a minister and medical interpreter, I’m able to communicate not just words but also sympathy and understanding. All of this is made possible because of my family heritage. Consequently, this leaves plenty of room for personal learning and growth.

My career allows me to be a blessing to my community and enriches my life as I learn from patients about their own cultural heritage.