HPAE Statement on the Tragic Death of HPAE Member Louisa Valdes

Statement by  Ann Twomey, President:

Wednesday, September 27, 2017

This week we lost a sister, who dedicated 26 years of her life to caring for those in need of medical care.  Louisa Valdes’ life was tragically taken when she was the victim of a hit-and-run driver as she got off the bus outside of Hackensack Meridian Health at Palisades Medical Center.  She was on her way in to work at The Harborage House when this senseless accident occurred.

As a union of healthcare professionals we are dedicated to saving lives, but losing one of our own is painful.  Her brothers and sisters at HPAE Local 5030 are grieving, yet together we are committed to supporting Louisa’s family and loved ones during this difficult time.

We thank our colleagues who responded to the scene, both medical and law enforcement, and to those who are continuing to investigate the incident, searching for the individual who is responsible for her death.

Our prayers and thoughts are with Louisa and her family; she will always be remembered by her union family.

Sandra White, President of HPAE Local 5097 at The Harborage:

“The local leadership along with our members have reached out to the family to offer our support and love during this difficult time.”

HPAE is the largest union of registered nurses and health care professionals in New Jersey. Since its founding by Englewood Hospital nurses in 1974, HPAE has expanded across the state and into Southeastern Pennsylvania representing 13,000 nurses, social workers, therapists, technicians, medical researchers, and other health care professionals in hospitals, nursing homes, home care agencies, blood banks, and university research facilities.  HPAE is affiliated with the American Federation of Teachers, AFL-CIO.