As a father and an Asian American - I was born in the Philippines - it’s very important to me that I educate my community and set a positive example. For about 4 months, I volunteered in the vaccination clinic on my days off. My wife, who is a pharmacist, also volunteered. It is important to use my skills to get as many people vaccinated so we can move past this horrible virus. I’ve found great joy in volunteering to be part of this important endeavor. I’ve met new people, made new friends and connections. It’s such a good feeling seeing the smile in people’s eyes when they get the vaccine.

When I was approached in 2011 to provide case management services for Gender Health, I was open to it. It was a new service for our region that really aligned with my belief system. Gender Health is a department that provides services to our transgender, gender-diverse and nonbinary members. Every patient deserves access to respectful and affirming care. We receive about 100 new referrals a month. My role is to help folks receive the health care they need. When patients have to repeat their story multiple times and deal with the bias and discrimination of people who are not aware or educated about this patient group, it’s devastating. It’s been heartbreaking to hear people’s stories and struggles, but heartwarming when I know I’ve helped a patient. One day gender diversity will not only be respected, but celebrated in the way it’s deserved.

I had a patient who was very sad and upset about possibly contracting COVID-19. He explained that he had a gun at home and was thinking of killing himself. I was shocked and scared for him, but I told him to have faith and peace. I referred him to Social Services. A few days later he came back and brought me a flower and a card. He told me that nobody had ever talked to him so beautifully, and it gave him hope to live. I think one of the best things we can do right now is give people hope.