ALTOONA, Pa. -- Hundreds of nurses from Altoona Regional came together for a community vigil in Altoona Wednesday night. They said they were uniting their voices because that's the best way to show patients the care and compassion they deserve.

The nurses are continuing their battle against a contract that they've been negotiating for seven months.

At the vigil, the nurses shared prayers of hope and respect. Some of them shared their own stories. However, not all of those nurses were employees at Altoona Regional. Many of them came from neighboring states. They said they're showing their support for the local nurses because the best patient care and valuing nurses isn't unique to Altoona, it's important all over the country.

Next week will be the first time hospital decision-makers and union officials come together. The nurses said hopefully, it's not another step toward a strike but rather, the assurance of union security which is what they need to keep everyone united.

Hospital officials said the same contract will remain on the table and they will not budge on the issue of freedom of choice for the nurses.

Nurses in the union said they're willing to meet with the hospital board as often and as long as necessary to work things out, but right now, the ball is in their court.