SARASOTA – The spotlight may be on the two teams squaring off at the Super Bowl but its health care workers that will also share in some of the limelight.
All eyes may be on the winner of Super Bowl 55, but some of that attention will be shared with the more than 7,500 vaccinated healthcare workers that’re in attendance watching Sunday’s historic game.
Last month NFL commissioner Roger Goodell surprised front line health care workers at Sarasota Memorial Hospital (SMH) with free tickets to thank them for their part in the fight against COIVID-19.
“It just means we’re recognized and it’s a great feeling. We’re proud to be there and represent or community,” said SMH Health Care Worker Sherrie Sheppard.
Of those 7,500 lucky fans SMH sent 24 of their finest to the Big Game.
“We are extremely honored, extremely honored. This is like a dream come true,” said Sherry Fajura.
Fajura is part of the patient care team from SMH’s 5th Waldemere Tower. She says getting chosen to attend Sunday’s game is a humble reminder of the sacrifice they continue to make to stay by their patients’ side throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.
“I want to say it’s almost like a humble experience this is something we all do everyday, but to get recognition for it it’s truly amazing,” said Fajura.
But of course, even the diehard fans could contain their sheer excitement.
“I want to see the Bucs win the Superbowl. I’m a big Tom Brady fan and a big Bucs fan,” said Stephen Smith. “Still here baby let’s go”
And to make sure as many front line health care workers are represented with them, the group brought cutouts of the faces of their colleagues who couldn’t attend the game, allowing them to be there in spirit.
Ready to cheer on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to their second Super Bowl win.
“Go BUCS!,” cheered Rebecca Izquierdo, as the group boarded the bus ready to watch history be made on the gridiron.
