Valerie Herrera, a 26-year-old from Illinois, shared with ABC News that Pope Francis “touched her heart” after a memorable interaction with him in 2015. This historic event took place during a town hall in 2015, where the pope engaged in a virtual audience with Americans from different parts of the country, moderated by ABC News anchor David Muir. The event, which occurred on Aug. 31, 2015, was the first time a pope had directly interacted with Americans using virtual technology. Pope Francis spoke for almost an hour via satellite to various groups, including Cristo Rey Jesuit High School in Chicago, Sacred Heart Church in McAllen, Texas, and homeless individuals in Los Angeles.
Valerie Herrera, who was 17 at the time, shared her story with Pope Francis about dealing with a rare skin disorder and using music to cope with bullying. In a touching moment during the town hall, the pope requested her to sing for him. Herrera sang a song of her choice in front of a cheering audience at Cristo Rey Jesuit High School, leaving many moved. Pope Francis thanked her with his warm smile, which Herrera still vividly recalls to this day.
Now working as a nurse outside Chicago, Herrera reflects on how that moment with the pope influenced her career and personal life, shaping her into a woman of faith dedicated to serving others. She believes in providing care and compassion to her patients, ensuring they receive the love and support they need during their time of weakness. Pope Francis’ warm smile and encouraging words continue to inspire Herrera in her journey as a nurse.
