The UAB Department of Surgery is pleased to highlight Hispanic Heritage Month by sharing the stories and experiences of faculty, staff, and trainees across the department.

Hispanic Heritage Month recognizes the cultures, histories, and influences of those of Spanish, Mexican, Caribbean, and South American decent. The month runs from September 15 through October 15 in order to mark the time with five Latin American countries (El Salvador, Guatemala, Costa Rica, Honduras, and Nicaragua) became independent of Spain and the United Kingdom.

The department’s first spotlight features Communications Director Marissa Keppley, MBA. Keppley’s father is a Cuban American who came to the United States in 1969.  

Would you mind sharing a little bit about your family and ties to Hispanic Heritage Month?

“My father’s family came to the US fifty-two years ago in 1969 from Cuba. Fleeing poverty and looking for a better life for their family, my grandmother “Mima” andKeppley's Mima and Father my grandfather boarded an airplane that was part of the “Freedom Flights” with their 4 children and came to the US. Story has it that they had only hours to decide if they were going to go. I cannot imagine what that was like. Think about it… You have a few hours to pack all your belongings - your four children – and say goodbye to your parents and siblings, knowing you will likely never come back. They were strong people, to say the least.

Hispanic Heritage month, to me, means celebrating the roots that I come from, reflecting on the hardships that came before me and sharing those stories of strength with my family and friends. Also, let’s be honest, it’s a great time to play some Celia Cruz and cook some delicious Cuban food!”

What special element(s) of Hispanic culture have been most impactful for you or your family? Feel free to share memories.

“The Cuban side of my family has ALWAYS emphasized the importance of family. Whether itKeppley's Mima was getting together for someone’s birthday or dancing the night away during Noche Buena, we were always together! Even now, when family doesn’t all live in the same place and COVID has us all in quarantine, I still have group chats and Zoom calls with my cousins and aunts and uncles. They are my backbone, and that comes from my Mima for sure.

After only a few years in the US, my grandfather passed away. Mima now had four children, did not speak English and was trying to put food on the table. She
worked multiple jobs and just kept fighting each day to get a little bit more. The sacrifices and emotional strength they must have had is not lost with me. When I feel overwhelmed, I often lean on my family and reflect on the strength that is in our blood. It really does make me who I am. I feel like I can just as easily present to senior leaders at UAB and scrub down a bathroom – if it needs to be done, I got you.”

Are there elements, observances, or traditions you are passing along to the next generation?

“Yes, come see me about some platanos and yellow rice and chicken!

But honestly, I think it is really important to pass along the wonderful things that come with Cuban heritage – like the music, the food, the work ethic and love for family. But more than that, I love to share stories about my grandparents, my aunt, uncles, my dad. Like many families out there, this is where the lessons are learned and you can inspire the next generation.

My three boys were all born with blond hair and are more German overall then Cuban. But they know the story of how Mima and “Uelo” (which is what they call my dad.. aka Abuelo) came from Cuba and worked really hard to have good jobs and a happy life. It not only keeps them tied to their roots, but also instills values that I hope they take into adulthood and pass on to their kids.”

Anything else to add about Hispanic Heritage Month and what it means for you and your family?

“I think heritage months are so great in that it’s an opportunity to learn about a culture you may not know much about. And it lets people share their stories and hopefully inspire others. I know my heritage and my Mima inspire me every day!”

To learn more about the month and how to participate, we invite you to read this UAB School of Medicine Office of Diversity and Inclusion article. If you would like to be featured in a Hispanic Heritage Month Spotlight, reach out to surgcomm@uabmc.edu.