By Stephen Stirling
City Councilman John Liu (D-Flushing) joined Flushing Hospital in celebrating National Nurse Appreciation Day last Thursday.
Liu and Dr. Robert Crupi, chairman of Flushing Hospital's Emergency Medicine Department, presided over a daylong event celebrating nurses and their contribution to the medical community.
Liu touted the expertise of the hospital's diverse medical staff and said they were clearly committed to the community's health and well-being.
“We have nurses here whose families have been here in Queens for several generations, but we also have nurses who have come to Flushing from around the world,” Liu said. “This kind of diversity only adds to the tremendous talent and dedication we have here at Flushing Hospital.”
Before presenting awards for best registered nurse and best licensed practical nurse of the year, Crupi said the contribution of all nurses cannot be understated.
“Patients don't really ask all that often, 'Where's my doctor?' they ask, 'Where's my nurse?' And there's a reason for that,” Crupi said.
John Hartin was awarded Best Registered Nurse of the Year while Zucha Ramusevic received the award for Licensed Practical Nurse of the Year. Ramusevic said she was humbled to receive the award, but was happy for the recognition.
“If there is anything in life that can keep you going, it's receiving gratitude from others,” Ramusevic said.
Reach reporter Stephen Stirling by e-mail at Sstirling@timesledger.com or by phone at 718-229-0300, Ext. 138.
