Valerie Herrera, a 26-year-old from Illinois, shared a heartfelt story with ABC News about her memorable interaction with Pope Francis during a historic town hall event in 2015. This groundbreaking event, moderated by ABC News anchor David Muir, marked a significant moment in history as it was the first time a pope engaged in direct dialogue with Americans through virtual technology.
On August 31, 2015, Pope Francis participated in a virtual audience, connecting with groups across the United States. The event included participants from Cristo Rey Jesuit High School in Chicago, Sacred Heart Church in McAllen, Texas, and even homeless individuals alongside outreach workers in Los Angeles. The pope's nearly hour-long dialogue was a remarkable use of satellite technology to foster communication and understanding.
At just 17 years old, Valerie Herrera took the opportunity to share her personal struggles with a rare skin disorder and her journey of finding solace in music amid bullying. In an unforgettable moment during the town hall, Pope Francis, known for his compassion, requested that she sing for him. As the audience at Cristo Rey Jesuit High School erupted in cheers, Herrera performed a song of her choice, which deeply moved everyone present.
Now at age 26 and working as a nurse outside Chicago, Herrera reflects on this transformative experience with Pope Francis. She recalled his warm smile and the encouragement he provided, stating, "When I think about Pope Francis, I remember his warming and welcoming smile when he asked me to sing for him. That's the face I will always remember."
Valerie Herrera emphasized how her encounter with the pontiff has profoundly impacted both her professional and personal life. She expressed, "It taught me to just be more of a woman of faith that is here to serve others." As a dedicated nurse, Herrera feels a strong responsibility to care for her patients, saying, "I have the responsibility to provide and give everything that I have in order to ensure that people are healing, people are getting better, and to provide the love and compassion that family members and patients really need in their time of weakness when they're sick."
Through her experience with Pope Francis, Herrera has embraced her calling to serve, embodying the values of compassion and care that she believes are essential in healthcare. Her story serves as a reminder of the enduring impact that one moment of kindness can have on an individual's life and career.
