If the COVID-19 outbreak has shown us anything, there are heroes among us, living and working right here in the Newcastle community. They’re the essential workers who continue to provide necessary, often life-saving services. From grocery workers and food-service employees to delivery drivers and first responders, we all owe them a great deal of thanks for the sacrifices they’re making.

One group in particular is entrenched on the front lines. Our doctors, nurses and other healthcare workers are battling this coronavirus pandemic head-on, putting their lives at risk to care for their patients. They are the definition of heroes, and last week, Newcastle Mayor Linda Newing recognized their bravery with a small token of appreciation for the staff members at Newcastle’s Overlake and Valley Medical Center clinics.

“Our medical professionals are fearless,” Mayor Newing said. “They’re committed to saving lives, and they’re putting their own health and safety on the line to do it. They deserve to be recognized for all of the hard work and long hours they are putting in to support our community.”

How do you thank a hero when words aren’t enough? Well, buying them lunch doesn’t hurt. Last Thursday, Mayor Newing used her own money to purchase enough Jersey Mike’s sandwiches to feed the staffs at both Newcastle clinics.

She hand-delivered them to each location and personally thanked the health care workers for their service. The staff at both locations were thankful for the Mayor’s special delivery and grateful for the overall outpouring of community support.

“It was the least I could do to show my appreciation,” Mayor Newing said. “I want our Newcastle healthcare workers to know that they have our community’s full support. We see them. We see their sacrifices.”