Children's Team Recognized for 'Braving the Storm', Keeping Patients Safe

A message from Children's National's President and CEO Kurt Newman, MD:

Monday night, much of the East Coast was enduring the extreme weather brought by Hurricane Sandy. Tens of thousands of people suffered injury and property damage and millions of people faced a long night worrying what would happen to them, their families, and their loved ones. 

But our patients were not among those who had to worry.

Thanks to the hundreds of dedicated Children’s National staff who braved the storm, our patients and families continued to receive world-class care and remain safe throughout this unprecedented storm. Employees from across our organization went the extra mile to staff units, prepare food, provide beds, keep the pharmacy and lab running, and do all the countless things that make a medical center run smoothly, no matter what catastrophe comes our way. In many cases, our team had to brave difficult road conditions, and chose to sleep on cots and in meeting rooms, to ensure our systems remained operational.

When I rounded the floors Monday night, I was struck with the energy and positivity of everyone I met. As always, our clinical teams were stellar, including the Emergency Department, our East Inpatient Tower units, inpatient Psychiatry, and many others. I was also impressed with our nonclinical support teams. Just one example was the Nutrition Services team, who stayed here all night with smiles on their faces while ensuring our families and staff were well fed. 

Once again, our team demonstrated that we never forget who we are caring for. I couldn’t be prouder to call myself a part of the Children’s National family today. Way to go, team!