American Airlines

NYC Hospital Staff Surprised With Free Vacations As Thanks For COVID-19 Efforts

Updated August 16, 2021

Staff at a New York City hospital were recently surprised with complimentary vacations as reward for their tireless work and dedication as they continue to battle the ongoing coronavirus outbreak, CNN reported.

On May 8, more than 4,000 doctors, nurses, and other staff members at NYC Health + Hospitals/Elmhurst were gifted the free three-night vacation packages, courtesy of Hyatt Hotels and American Airlines.

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The vacations, which will take place later this year, are meant to help hospital staff unwind and recuperate after working on the front lines of the pandemic.

In a press release, Hyatt and American Airlines explained the companies have teamed up to surprise medical workers with free round-trip flights to hotels in select destinations across the US and Caribbean in an effort to "help them recharge and reconnect with their loved ones."

"Once at their destination, these special guests will be able to unwind with well-being experiences, world-class food and beverage menus, outdoor activities and more like all guests at Hyatt hotels."

Israel Rocha, CEO of NYC Health + Hospitals/Elmhurst, said staff are "extremely grateful" for the complimentary vacation packages.

As he said in the press release, "Our doctors, nurses, and other staff on the front lines of this unprecedented health care crisis really appreciate the outpouring of support from two of America's major companies, and we look forward to taking advantage of these well-earned vacations in the near future."

As of writing, over 333,000 people in the state of New York have tested positive for the coronavirus since the outbreak first began, and more than 26,000 have died.

Elmhurst, a 545-bed hospital located in Queens, has reportedly increased its Intensive Care Unit's (ICU) capacity by 500%.

“Every worker at Elmhurst has seen and experienced challenges many of us cannot imagine," Robert Isom, President of American Airlines, said in the press release. "They’ve given so much of themselves and chose to serve their community with care, compassion and equity for every patient."

He added, “When they are able to take a break, we hope the time away will help them and their loved ones recharge and that they feel our deepest appreciation for their sacrifice and heroism.”

h/t: CNN, American Airlines

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