Shift change at Spectrum Health Butterworth Hospital came with an extra dose of gratitude Tuesday evening.
On street corners near the hospital on Michigan Street NE, supporters held up signs that proclaimed in big letters their appreciation for the frontline health care workers:
“You are loved”
“Health care heroes”
“Thank you for being on the front line”
The 15 people on the spontaneous cheer team smiled, waved and called “Thank you” to the men and women in scrubs as they arrived at the hospital for work or headed home.
The show of support came from a Belknap Lookout neighborhood just north of the hospital, Lavonne Schaafsma said.
The neighbors wanted to let the workers know how much they appreciate the dedication, sacrifice and hard work of those caring for patients during the COVID-19 pandemic.
With friends in health care, and as a psychotherapist, she worries about the challenges and struggles faced by those on the front line.
“My heart goes out to them,” she said. “If this lifts spirits, it will be worth it.”
The supporters stood far apart from each other, following social distancing guidelines. They cheered on the health care workers who walked by.
The workers smiled and nodded. Some took photos and videos of the signs.
The appreciation displayed in the homemade signs means a great deal to those working in health care during a stressful time, said Shawn Ulreich, DSc, RN, chief nurse executive and senior vice president of clinical operations for Spectrum Health.
“It is just so gratifying to see that people in the community recognize that these individuals are on the front line of something we have never seen in our lifetime—and hopefully will never see again,” she said.
“Health care workers by nature don’t expect applause, by any means. The fact that people are reaching out is just heartwarming.”
Thank you so much for showing your support to our healthcare workers! My daughter works at the hospital and was brought to tears by your thoughtfulness. It means the world to them to know they are appreciated!
How wonderful. Thank you for sharing, Lori, and best wishes to you and your daughter. #InThisTogether
I am a nurse at the hospital and I can tell you that this meant more than words can express. We are so grateful. Thank you.
Thank you for all you do each day to care for our community, Rachel! You are soooo appreciated.
I was BORN at Butterworth a good many years ago!! I am so proud of those who are providing care to those in need ~ and equally proud of those who THANKED them. Grand Rapids ROCKS! Stay strong, kindness matters!! And BE WELL!
Thank you, thank you, thank you for this act of support! My son works in the hospital there and they truly are running into the storm that every one else is told to run away from. Their dedication and care for their patients is unwavering and these heroes deserve this show of support. Although they never, ever look for recognition I know it spurs them on and energizes their fatigued body and emotions. Thank you so much for taking your time to communicate and show this support!
Beautifully said, Susan. Thank you to your son and all his colleagues caring for patients during this pandemic.
The Lab Central team at 25 Michigan sees this every day as we come in too. You have no idea how appreciated we feel, knowing even though we’re not right front line, we’re keeping you safe. Thanks for the support.
Thank you, Gen. You and your team play a vital role in helping our patients and our community!
I always know when I click the link, I’m going to have tears in my eyes as I read the stories. It probably seems like such a simple thing for them to do, but the impact is immense. I hope they realize how deeply their words and actions resonate in our hearts.