After Hours, Not Overlooked: Community Members Honor Overnight ER Staff

Thanks to the generosity of Anthony Castro and his Bible study group from Valley Bible Fellowship Church, Bakersfield's overnight Emergency Department team recently enjoyed a special evening of appreciation, fellowship, and prayer.

Inspired by his ongoing street ministry work and a calling to recognize first responders and the often-unsung heroes who serve overnight in the ER, Anthony connected with the Adventist Health Central California Foundation through one of our nurses to coordinate the event.

Anthony, along with his wife, Kellie, and friends Dillon, Aalexias and Genaro, brought an abundance of food and refreshments for staff working late-night shifts, including sub sandwiches, chips, cookies, muffins, and sodas.

Throughout the evening, team members were invited to receive prayer in the break room. The response was so heartfelt that the group remained on-site for nearly three hours, offering encouragement and support to employees who dedicate themselves to caring for others.

Employees shared personal prayer requests ranging from blessings for coworkers and patients to healing for a sick child, renewed faith for a family member, and strength, wellbeing and encouragement for themselves and their loved ones.

The evening served as a meaningful reminder of the impact that community support and compassionate encouragement can have on healthcare workers. It also highlighted the strong connection between Adventist Health and the communities we serve.

We are deeply grateful to Anthony, Kellie, Dillon, Aalexias and Genaro for their kindness, generosity, and commitment to uplifting our overnight Emergency Department staff. Their thoughtful act of service reminded our caregivers that their dedication does not go unnoticed.