On Tuesday, June 30th, a caravan of at least 30 cars paraded through the grounds of Cabrini of Westchester in Dobbs Ferry, NY, while the song “Ain’t No Stopping Us Now” was blasted for all to hear! The cars were decorated with signs of appreciation in honor of the members of the 1199 Service Employees International Union who are employed at St. Cabrini Nursing Home. As the cars made their way to the front of the building, staff members emerged out of the doors while dancing, singing and wearing huge smiles.
Organized by the administration of the 1199 Union, the parade was to thank the dedicated employees who tirelessly care for the residents of the home, most especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition to the parade, organizers arranged for New York State Senate Majority Leader and friend of Cabrini of Westchester, Senator Andrea Stewart-Cousins, to attend and address the group with words of thanks. “During the COVID-19 pandemic, you showed up to work every day and proved that you are beyond essential. I came here on behalf of myself, the Senate and every elected official throughout Westchester County and the State to say thank you for being our backbone, our constant and our heart.”
As festive as the atmosphere was, it was apparent that there was a special individual that was missing from the celebration. A moment of silence was held in memory of Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), Barbara Holmes, who succumbed to the COVID-19 virus in May. Barbara was employed at Cabrini for almost 41 years and was a passionate advocate for both residents and co-workers. It seemed appropriate that Patricia Krasnausky, President and CEO of Cabrini of Westchester announced that the monthly Values in Action Award will be renamed in Barbara’s honor, since she was the epitome of Cabrini’s core values of pride, dignity, compassion and respect.