PARKER, Colo. — Law enforcement officers and first responders from the Douglas County community gathered at Parker Adventist Hospital Wednesday morning to thank healthcare workers for their work in the fight against COVID-19.
Using emergency vehicles and police cruisers, members of the Parker Police Department, Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, Colorado State Patrol, and South Metro Fire and Rescue turned on their emergency lights and drove around the hospital to show their gratitude.
“We wanted to make sure that we showed them our appreciation for what they’ve done during the pandemic,” said Parker Police Sgt. Chris Kozuch.
Kozuch said the first responders who participated in the “drive-by thank you” know exactly what community support can do for morale.
“We understand that the men and women of the Parker Adventist Hospital have spent long hours in the hospital fighting COVID-19 and have been on the front lines,” said Kozuch.
This past month has been tough for healthcare workers across Colorado, but their efforts are paying off.
According to the latest statistics from the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, the state has 1,085 ventilators but just 423 are in currently in use. There is no longer a shortage of intensive care unit beds and more than 2,000 patients have been discharged from the hospital this month.
Colorado Gov. Jared Polis said the encouraging statistics are a result of social distancing and healthcare workers who continue to work long hours for days on end.
