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Javier Colon Performs Surprise Outdoor Serenade at Hartford Hospital
May 07, 2020
Nurses Week took a musical turn May 6 when Javier Colon made a surprise appearance outside Hartford Hospital.
More than 300 masked nurses and employees found spots on socially-distanced markers on the ground, ready to hear season-one winner of “The Voice” entertain with songs from the heart, in an event emceed by iHeart Radio’s Renee DiNino.
Hartford HealthCare President and CEO Jeff Flaks extended a grateful message to the healthcare workers on the frontlines to treat patients during this pandemic. “This is when we as a state, as a country, as a world are most vulnerable,” he said. “The people who are caring for the community are our nurses, and every person who works within Hartford HealthCare today who is putting themselves on the line to take care of us. I salute you.”
Hartford Hospital President Bimal Patel had profound gratitude to the group. “We are indebted forever. You are making a difference,” he said. “You are living the values of Hartford HealthCare, you are living the values of humanity. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.”
Gov. Ned Lamont and Lt. Gov. Susan Bysiewicz were on hand, as well. The governor became emotional when recalling what he learned about a typical COVID-positive patient journey at Hartford Hospital.
“Hearing the story about people going through the emergency entrance – saying goodbye to a loved one. And, then you’re on your own,” he said, becoming choked-up. “All these people have is you. Each and every one of you is there for them. You give the patient a laptop or a tablet [to connect with family] just to let them know they are not alone.”
When Javier Colon took to the stage, he shared a very personal story.
“Hartford Hospital is special to me,” he shared, fighting back tears. “Two years ago, we brought my father in because he had a major heart attack, and you all saved his life. He coded in a hallway while I was parking my car. This is a very special place in my heart and you all are extremely special, so I was happy to be able to do this for you.”
Colon performed three songs to the appreciative group, expressing gratitude throughout the set.
“Thank you for sticking your necks out,” he said, “for putting yourselves in harm’s way for the sake of others. If I was allowed, I’d hug all of you.”
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