National Nurses Day honors frontline healthcare workers
ST. JOSEPH, Mich. – The Michiana community is showing their support for nurses who continue to provide healthcare services during the COVID-19 pandemic.
"Thank you" signs are being posted on neighboring residential properties near Spectrum Health Lakeland hospital in St. Joseph which express support and gratitude for front-line workers.
The President of Spectrum Health Lakeland, Dr. Loren Hamel, spoke to ABC57 about the extraordinary contributions being made by nurses – especially during a time of uncertainty.
“Nurses are in fact healthcare heroes,” Dr. Hamel said. “They have long been one of the most trusted parts of the healthcare delivery team year after year. People don't talk about 'the' nurse, they talk about 'my' nurse – it’s a very personal relationship. They care for folks in such personal ways.”
Police and Fire Departments (as well as emergency personnel) in Berrien County staged a spontaneous parade two weeks ago that honored healthcare workers for everything they have done during the coronavirus pandemic.
ABC57's Brian Conybeare also got a chance to speak with Jodi Peppers, an emergency room nurse at Spectrum Health Lakeland who says that she is appreciative of all the support she has received from the community.
To honor and show appreciation for frontline workers during nurses’ week and healthcare week, we are hosting a luminary event throughout Southwest Michigan on Tuesday, May 12. ?❤️ https://t.co/uc37Hkb8o6 #InThisTogether pic.twitter.com/yVTNtSWv0K
— Spectrum Health Lakeland (@SHLakeland) May 6, 2020