It was a day of musically-inspired emotional support for healthcare workers at Butler Memorial Hospital Wednesday.
Members of the Butler Golden Tornado Marching Band performed outside the hospital to show their appreciation for the healthcare workers on the frontline of the coronavirus pandemic response.
“It’s beyond words,” Butler Health System President Ken DeFurio said while getting choked up. “It’s been a tough go for our people. To see these kids come out and give something back by sharing their talents with the nurses, respiratory therapists, the doctors, and every other staff member in that hospital, not to mention the patients, is out of this world.”
Band director Jeff Kroner also said he hopes this has a lasting impact on the kids and people involved. “Just seeing the people smile was everything to me. Part of my job is to create memories for these kids, but also do what we can to lift people up with our music; I think we were able to do that today,” Kroner said.
Butler Superintendent Dr. Brian White said the idea came about as the district was wondering what they could do to help support healthcare workers.
“We know healthcare workers have done a tremendous job and a lot of heavy lifting throughout the pandemic, and we hope this brings a bright spot to their day,” White said.
Butler Health System officials say they appreciate the outreach from community members who are supporting their efforts as they deal with another surge in COVID patients. If you or a group is interested in donating or reaching out to the hospital, they have set up an email. It’s embraceBHS@butlerhealthsystem.org and officials ask that you detail what you want to donate or do in support of healthcare workers.
