MS Heroes honors local healthcare hero Emily Gonzalez

In a surprise celebration, Mississippi Heroes honored Emily Gonzalez, who’s worked in the ER at Memorial Hospital for 14 years.

Emily Gonzalez walked into an unexpected surprise. She and her family arrived at Champion Dodge, planning to shop for a new car but were greeted with a round of applause and celebration.

Mississippi Heroes awarded Gonzalez for her dedication to her patients, coworkers, husband, and sons, gifting her with a small token of appreciation.

Emily, a clinical technician in the ER at Memorial Hospital, is recognized by Mississippi Heroes for her selfless character and desire to help everyone around her. “This is extra emotional because it was specifically done by my husband and I’m very thankful for that.”

Back in October, Emily’s husband Octavio submitted a nomination email, hoping his wife would get recognized for all her hard work. “She works so hard, not only at work, but at home. There isn’t a project or anything my kids need that she will not provide, she will go above and beyond. She does so much and what I did is not enough honestly.”

Mississippi Heroes awarded Emily with a self-care package including a spa day at Blue Shell Spa, inside Island View Casino, dinner at Rack House, and a personalized plaque. Mississippi Heroes Executive Director Katherine Sutton said, “It’s heartwarming and it’s tough. It’s tough for the medical field, whether they’re nurses and doctors, and we’re just able to give a little something back.”

Local car dealership Dodge Champion in Gulfport partnered with Mississippi Heroes to present Emily with a Visa gift card of $500. Dodge Champion Director of Operations Gary Fitzhugh said, “God has blessed us and blessed the business and we just wanted to pass it on.”

Mississippi Heroes thanks all of their hero sponsors that make celebrating everyday caregivers like heroes possible. “We would love for more businesses on the Coast to get involved, even if its just a gift certificate, every little bit helps and it just pays it forward.”