All segments of our industry stepped up on November 5 to support a worthy cause. It’s still not too late to lend yours.
At our Virtual Awards Gala on Thursday, November 5, 2020, we announced that we raised $105,250, for Hackensack Meridien Health‘s Circle of Compassion program. Our goal was $100,000 and our client/partners, subscribers and friends did not let us down.
At a time when a pandemic has the global economy reeling the compassion of those in our industry who we are proud to serve stepped up. Manufacturers, dealers (including BTA), leasing companies, software developers, distributors, supplies vendors, and friends have responded in a very positive way.
We did not launch an elaborate campaign but simply reached out to people who have been supporting our charitable efforts for two decades. It all began when CJ indicated that he wanted to give $10,000 towards a campaign at HUMC for the nurses, clinicians, and EMTs who needed our help.
COVID-19 not only killed 250,000 people in a 9-month period but took a toll on the hospital’s key caregivers who worked 12-hour shifts wearing protective clothing, shields, and masks all day and every day. They were even asked to work on Sundays. Many stayed in hotels because they were afraid that if they went home, they could infect their loved ones. Some became ill and some even died.
These frontline workers gave it their all. Many experienced financial hardships caused by increased costs in childcare because their children were not in school. They worked long hard hours and never stopped fighting.
We were fortunate to get to know one of those amazing people. Megan Weinman, nurse manager, of a 42-person unit caring for 19 transplant patients. In our interview of Megan expressed how difficult it was in the beginning of the pandemic because they were dealing with the unknown.
Thanks to the doctors and the team that supported them. HUMC can proudly boast they saved more than 1,000 people who had contracted the virus. They fought with all they had to save these patients and applauded those who were wheeled out the door to return to their home and their families. They are now battling a dreaded third wave of the pandemic.
We have been raising money for veterans for a long time and we do so because of their sacrifice and willingness to serve, and if necessary, give their lives. These COVID-19 workers are just as much heroes as the veterans we love and support who have given so much.
We want to thank everyone that was so generous and assure you that your gift will help people who truly have a strong need so that they can continue to help others.
One of those kind and thoughtful donors is Jeff Elkin of Advanced Business Systems who apologized for not giving us a larger amount. Jeff had already made a substantial commitment to support a local hospital with their own Circle of Compassion. The fact was he gave what he could. I have known the Elkin family for close to 50 years, including his late Dad and his Mom who is ill. I’m sure she is as proud of Jeff as we all are. And we are equally proud of all those who have given so generously to this cause.
The fight is not over and there is still a need. If you are able, please send a donation for these very special people who deserve no less. No check is too small, no gift is too large. Please make your checks out to Hackensack UMC Foundation and send it to us at The Cannata Group LLC, P.O. Box 180 Hamburg, NJ 07419. Whatever you give us it all goes to the charity. Thank you all and may God bless you and your families and keep you safe during these terrible times.
In case you missed our Awards Gala, watch it now on YouTube.
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