FDNY, Inwood Fire Department host ‘clap
off’ tribute for St. John’s Episcopal Hospital
BY JENNA BAGCAL
Local fire departments in the Rockaways recently paid tribute to front line
healthcare workers at a local hospital.
On Friday, the FDNY’s “The Big House” and “The Best on The Beach” along
with the Inwood Fire Department organized a “clap off” tribute outside of St.
John’s Episcopal Hospital’s (SJEH) Emergency Department. Firefighters lined
the streets while applauding and blaring truck sirens in appreciation of hospital
staff working tirelessly through the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We want say thank you to the true heroes — the doctors, the nurses, the
environmental services staff, the cooks, and the entire staff at St. John’s,” said
Christopher Pasano, battalion chief of Battalion 47. “This is the only hospital
in the Rockaways and we want to show our love and appreciation! We will come
through this pandemic together!”
SJEH broadcast the tribute on Facebook Live. According to the hospital, the
video has reached more than 102,000 viewers, amassing more than 1,000 shares
and 64,000 direct views.
“The FDNY’s and Inwood Fire Department’s display of gratitude is much appreciated
and is a huge morale booster to us,” said Jerry Walsh, CEO of SJEH.
“Our employees are working around the clock to ensure that we are doing all we
can to help our patients have a successful health outcome, and this act of kindness
goes a long way!”
As the only hospital on the Rockaway peninsula, SJEH serves more than
140,000 residents, including those in Five Towns in Nassau County. Since confirming
the first positive case of COVID-19 in Queens, the hospital has been on
the forefront of helping community members battle the virus.
Reach reporter Jenna Bagcal by e-mail at jbagcal@qns.com or by phone at (718)
260-2583. Photos courtesy of SJEH
TIMESLEDGER | QNS.10 COM | APRIL 10-APRIL 16, 2020
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