The Emergency Departments at St. Joseph’s/Candler hosted a luncheon June 3 as a way to thank the dedicated Emergency Medical Services members in the Savannah area.
“We appreciate what they’ve done, especially over the past year,” said Billy Rawlings, director of Emergency Services for St. Joseph’s/Candler. “Today is about thanking them for their service.”
The first responders provide urgent medical assessment, treatment and transportation for our entire community, bringing thousands of patients to the hospital each year, said Rawlings. The COVID-19 pandemic tested that relationship even further and today the bond is stronger than ever.
The classic cookout staples included hamburgers and hot dogs. To-go boxes were prepared for those who couldn’t make it to the luncheon due to heavy call volume, which Chief of EMS at Chatham Emergency Services Bengie Cowart said is something that occurs often.
“In fact, this may be the only food our medics get today, and that’s just the nature of our business,” Cowart said. “So, St. Joseph’s/Candler providing these meals today is tremendous.”
Rawlings said it was the least the health system could do to show its gratitude for the EMS workers who serve the communities in Chatham, Bryan, Liberty, and Effingham counties.