St. John’s Episcopal Hospital Celebrates Its Team Members with Early Morning Applause and Superhero Characters on National Superheroes Day

Far Rockaway, New York, April 28, 2020 — To mark National Superheroes Day, St. John’s Episcopal Hospital (SJEH) team members who are on the frontlines of the battle against COVID-19 were met with applause from the hospital’s executive and senior management teams. While observing social distancing guidelines, management team members grabbed hand clappers and lined up around the hospital’s main entrance at 7:00 am to deliver a rousing round of applause that lasted a grand total of 1.5 hours.

“It’s been a rough two months,” Jerry Walsh, Chief Executive Officer, said to the socially distanced crowd while referring to the COVID-19 pandemic 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.”

Rep. Gregory W. Meeks, Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams, Council Member Donovan Richards Jr., and Council Member Eric Ulrich were in attendance to deliver messages of appreciation and support. A group of costumed superheroes also joined in on the festivities to cheer on the staff.

SJEH team members were also treated to a complimentary lunch donated by local businesses and community members.

From the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, the hospital has been extremely fortunate to be on the receiving end of personal protective equipment (PPE), medical equipment, supplies, food donations, and comfort items, and would like to thank all community members, local businesses, and elected officials for their ongoing support.

The festivities were captured by the hospital and shared via Facebook Live which can be viewed on SJEH’s Facebook page @stjohnsepiscopalhospital or by visiting the Facebook page directly at this URL: https://tinyurl.com/ya62tgty.

“The health care workers clocking in every day to our hospitals and health centers are nothing short of heroes. 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” said Rep. Gregory W. Meeks.

“As we continue to navigate this public health crisis, so many hospitals throughout the city – particularly those serving low-income communities – are still in need of vital supplies. Our hospital workers are on the front lines every day making unimaginable sacrifices to fight this pandemic, and they deserve all the support we can provide. That’s why we were proud to join Council Member Richards and Council Member Ulrich to drop off supplies at St. John’s Episcopal Hospital,” said Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams.

“As healthcare workers, you are the true heroes. Each day you risk your lives to saves others. Thank you St. John’s for your commitment to our community and together to will continue to fight against this pandemic,” said Council Member Donovan Richards.

“Our office is doing everything we can to support the dedicated medical professionals on the frontlines of this crisis. This was just another opportunity to show our support,” said Council Member Eric Ulrich.