Lower Bucks Hospital recently commemorated the two-year anniversary of its first confirmed COVID-19 case with a ceremony honoring healthcare workers who have spent the past two years fighting on the front lines of the pandemic.
The ceremony was held in the lobby of the Dee Brown auditorium and acknowledged the heroism and resilience of the frontline workers. The event was an opportunity for co-workers to gather with community leaders, begin healing collectively and enjoy a meal donated by the Gene & Marlene Epstein Humanitarian Foundation.
“It is certainly hard to believe that two years have passed since our world was upended,” said Lea Rodriguez, chief nursing officer of Lower Bucks Hospital. “We are incredibly grateful to our healthcare heroes for the tremendous courage and resilience they have shown time and time again to our patients, our community and, above all, to each other.”
Rodriguez also expressed gratitude for community support and donations throughout the pandemic.
“We know our healthcare heroes are tired, but they continue to put others first and care for the sickest patients in our hospitals,” Rodriguez said. “Having local support from the Gene & Marlene Epstein Humanitarian Foundation is an emotional boost to our employees who have sacrificed and worked tirelessly for all of us.”
The day began with Lower Bucks Hospital CEO Michael Motte welcoming all in attendance. He said, “Today, we take the opportunity to publicly honor the Lower Bucks Hospital healthcare heroes that we continually hold dear in our hearts.”
During the event, beautifully displayed signs of gratitude were donated by the foundation. The ceremony featured the Harry S. Truman High School band, led by Keith Krelove, the school’s director of instrumental music. The band played inspirational and uplifting tunes, while healthcare workers and community members listened.
The Washington Crossing Fifes and Drums led the crowd inside, and remarks were made by Bucks County philanthropist Gene Epstein, along with Jim Sell, campus dean of Bucks County Community College, Motte and Rodriguez. Sell presented the healthcare workers with thank you cards and posters made by students.
After the presentations, employees and guests were offered meals donated by the foundation.
“I applaud our community leaders here today for acknowledging the healthcare heroes of Lower Bucks Hospital who were affected by COVID-19,” said Sell. “Every day, these employees are putting their best foot forward and today’s event is a reminder of our gratitude to them.”
