55.0°,
Mostly Cloudy Applauding the superheroes at St. John's Hospital in Far Rockaway
National Superheroes Day took on special meaning at St. John's Episcopal Hospital in Far Rockaway on April 28 as the only hospital on the Rockaway Peninsula celebrated its staff that are the health care workers on the frontlines of the coronavirus pandemic.
Hospital executives and senior management teams applauded the employees at 7 a.m. for 90 minutes. Observing social distancing guidelines, management grabbed hand clappers and lined up around the hospital's main entrance.
“It’s been a rough two months,” Jerry Walsh, St. John’s CEO, said to the crowd referring to the Covid-19 health crisis that has hit the Rockaways particularly hard. “You are the true heroes, and as we recognize you on National Superheroes Day, know that we appreciate each and every one of you every day all year round.”
A handful of elected officials also attended the celebration. Hospital employees were also treated to a complimentary lunch donated by local businesses and community members.
Since the beginning of the virus’s outbreak, St. John’s has received donations of personal protective equipment, medical equipment, supplies, food and comfort items. Hospital officials said that they greatly appreciate the support from community members, local businesses and elected officials.
“The health care workers clocking in every day to our hospitals and health centers are nothing short of heroes,” said Rep. Gregory Meeks, who represents southeast Queens and Inwood. “Each shift they risk their own health and safety in order to come into work and take care of others, selflessly putting themselves on the front lines of this pandemic to help others. Our nation owes them all a bottomless debt of gratitude and a great deal more for their bravery and self-sacrifice. Honored to cheer them on in person during National Superheroes day and look forward to continue fighting for their protection and support in Congress.”
The event was recorded and shared on Facebook Live, which can be viewed on the hospital’s Facebook page @stjohnsepiscopalhospital or going to the Facebook page directly at https://tinyurl.com/ya62tgty.
