Bio’s of the Owner

José Antonio Alvarado, DNP, FNP-C.

Dr. José Antonio Alvarado’s journey to hospice care began long before the doors of Vara Hospice opened. Adopted and raised in Houston, Texas, alongside his brother, he grew up in a modest home where his father, a stoic master plumber and Vietnam veteran, and his mother, a devoted and disciplined homemaker, instilled the values of hard work, resilience, and compassion. From an early age, his natural empathy and ability to comfort others set the foundation for a life in service to people.

In March 2018, after the passing of his father, Dr. Alvarado was inspired to transform his grief into action. Just two months later, Vara Hospice was founded, dedicated to honoring life with dignity and compassion. From the beginning, Vara Hospice distinguished itself by stepping into roles that few hospices ever attempt, launching large-scale vaccination campaigns and even being the first in the nation to vaccinate migrant families, long before such efforts were common. This pioneering spirit positioned Vara Hospice as both a leader in care and a voice for vulnerable communities, setting a lasting standard of service.

Veronica Hernandez, BBA Director Business Development

Veronica Hernandez is a proud Laredoan, born and raised, and a dedicated healthcare professional with over 21 years of experience in hospice and business development. She currently serves as the Director of Business Development at Vara Hospice, where she focuses on expanding services, reaching, and strengthening provider collaboration, education, and ensuring families have access to compassionate, quality end-of-life care.

Before joining Vara Hospice, Veronica served as a Community Liaison at Altus Hospice for 9 years, where she focused on building referral networks, supporting patients and families, and connecting providers with essential hospice services. During her time at Altus, she was recognized as a President’s Circle Inductee from 2020 to 2023, placing her among the Top 5% nationwide. Prior to that, she dedicated 10 years as a Physician Liaison at Nurse on Wheels, where she built trusted relationships with providers and supported patient care through education and outreach.

Veronica’s career began at HEB, where her Foundation of hard work and dedication quickly stood out, earning her the honor of Employee of the Year 1990.

Education has been an important part of Veronica’s Journey. She earned her Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in 2007 from Texas A&M International University, following her Associate of Science degree from Laredo Community College in 2004. She is also a proud United High School Longhorn, Class of 1989.

Faith and family are at the heart of Veronica life she is deeply family-oriented — a value instilled by her parents and strengthened by the love she shares with her parents, brother, husband, children, and grandchildren. She cherishes time with her Son, daughter-in-law, and three grandchildren, as well as the joy of gaining two sons, a daughter, and nine additional grandchildren through marriage. Family remains her greatest passion and source of inspiration.

Veronica enjoys exercise, reading, and travel, which bring balance and renewal to her life. Her journey reflects a philosophy rooted in faith, service, community, and passion, qualities that continue to shape her personal and professional path.

Cristina Barrera, LMSW

Cristina is a Licensed Master Social Worker in the State of Texas. She earned her Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley and is continuing her professional journey as a clinical social worker. Her clinical interests include trauma, grief, resiliency, and end-of-life care. Cristina has meaningful experience in hospice, where she supported patients and families with compassion through the challenges of serious illness and loss. She also has a background in crisis intervention and mental health through her work with the local mental health and behavioral authority. Outside of her professional life, Cristina enjoys spending time with her loved ones and traveling.

Stephanie Cazares, BSN, RN Director of Nursing & Alternate Administrator

For Stephanie Cazares, nursing has always been more than a career; it’s a calling. Inspired by a lifelong passion for caring for others, Stephanie now serves as the Director of Nursing and Alternate Administrator at Vara Hospice, where she leads with compassion, empathy, and a deep commitment to patient dignity.

With a Bachelors in Science and Nursing, Stephanie brings both clinical expertise and a heartfelt approach to end-of-life care. She believes hospice is not just about managing symptoms — it’s about honoring each patient’s journey, providing comfort, and supporting families through one of life’s most vulnerable times.

Stephanie works closely with her team to ensure that every patient and family receives the care, guidance, and emotional support they deserve. Beyond her leadership role, she is passionate about educating the community on hospice, advanced care planning, and empowering families to make informed choices with compassion and confidence.

For Stephanie, every patient’s story matters, and through her work at Vara Hospice, she strives to make every moment meaningful, peaceful, and dignified.

Patricia Acosta de Serna, CNA

I am a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) with over 14 years of experience, including 2 years in hospice care. Throughout my career, I have developed strong caregiving skills, always providing care with compassion, empathy, and humanity. Working in hospice has given me the opportunity to leave a positive impact, offering both physical and emotional support during meaningful moments.