Walker Baptist Medical Center
Jasper, Alabama
Candy Berastegui, RN
Candy Berastegui is the manager of Walker Baptist Medical Center’s senior care unit, where she has served the Jasper, Alabama, community for nearly 13 years. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Candy has a very important job: keeping the most vulnerable safe. She spends her time in the hospital making sure seniors have the proper accommodations to avoid infection.
"We keep our patients informed as to what is going on and help them understand we are taking all measures to prevent anyone from contracting the virus, especially since our unit is more susceptible due to age and co-morbidities," Candy told Daily Mountain Eagle.
In addition, Candy encourages seniors to participate in activities organized just for them at the hospital so that life can feel as “normal” as possible. This includes playing bingo and enjoying music together.
Through it all, Candy says she has learned a valuable lesson. "I have learned to appreciate each moment and not take anything for granted," she said. "I believe as healthcare workers, we are essential, but I also believe that everyone is essential to someone, so we need to take that into consideration during this time."
Candy’s passion for caring for the most vulnerable is in abundance because they remind her of her own grandparents.
"I am proud to be part of Walker Baptist. They are family to me, and I'm so proud to be part of the community of Walker County," she said. "The town may be small, but the hearts and faith of this community and that of the hospital are large."
Pictured: Candy in the senior care unit
Access the full story from the Daily Mountain Eagle here.
