Keeping Calm in the Storm: Inside Moffitt’s Hurricane Response Teams

When a hurricane hits, people are told to stay indoors, seek shelter and avoid unnecessary risks. However, at Moffitt Cancer Center, a dedicated group of team members stays behind to ensure the safety of the hospital, its patients and the continuity of care. These team members are organized into two groups: the response team and the recovery team. Here’s a glimpse into what it’s like to work during a hurricane shutdown, from the perspectives of those on the frontlines. 

Maintaining Operations  

For Vicki Pruett, an Environmental Services team member who is part of the response team during a hurricane, the experience is both challenging and rewarding. 

Vicki Pruett of Environment Services helps maintain cleanliness, addresses water intrusion and ensures the hospital is operational during a storm.

“Coming from Arizona, I had never experienced a hurricane before, only monsoons and wind spouts. But nothing compares to the destruction of a hurricane,” Pruett said. 

Preparation and teamwork are key. Pruett says the planning and execution of what needs to be put into place before a storm is essential. “Our Emergency Operations Center communicates with team members, ensuring open communication and support for all departments,” she explained. 

During a hurricane, the Environmental Services team is tasked with maintaining cleanliness, addressing water intrusion with the Facilities team and ensuring the hospital remains operational.  

“It’s a time where teamwork and preparedness shine,” Pruett said. “We work in teams, and we tackle each task methodically, from protecting the buildings to cleaning patient rooms.” 

The Environmental Services team extends shifts to 12 hours, rather than the usual eight, making the experience more demanding. However, Pruett embraces the challenge with a positive outlook. She says, even with the difficulties, Moffitt team members find a deep sense of purpose in their work, which makes it all incredibly rewarding. 

Strengthening Bonds

Brandon Delli Santi, a nurse at the Moffitt Magnolia campus, worked during both Milton and Helene.

Brandon Delli Santi is an inpatient nurse at Moffitt’s Magnolia campus. He describes working during a hurricane as both intense and unforgettable. The clinical team’s role during a storm is to provide continuous care for patients who cannot leave the hospital. He says working during hurricanes Milton and Helene seemed different than years past.  

“There was so much uncertainty. Both storms were expected to hit our homes directly, and that created a lot of anxiety and stress,” he said. 

Despite the pressure, Delli Santi says the experience brought the team closer. “We worked two nights and two days, doing 12-hour shifts to care for our patients,” he said. “But hurricanes also have a way of strengthening bonds. There’s something about being in a shared space while chaos unfolds outside.” 

The team kept spirits up by leaning on one another for support. “Even though I’m not from Florida, I’ve seen how much communities, especially Moffitt, rally during times like these,” he said. “We took care of our patients, and we took care of each other.” 

We’re Prepared for Anything 

Carmen Maldonado Perez with the Security team helps ensure safety during a storm.

Carmen Maldonado Perez from the Security team understands the critical nature of her role during a hurricane. Her responsibilities include ensuring the safety of everyone in the building by controlling access points, assisting with emergencies and maintaining a visible presence to provide a sense of protection. Security team members like Perez work tirelessly, often putting in extra hours to manage shifts and adapt to the evolving situation. 

“The hurricane may be raging outside, but inside, we’re doing everything we can to keep things calm and orderly,” Perez said.  

One of the most challenging aspects of the job during a hurricane is the uncertainty. “You never know exactly what to expect, but that’s where our training comes in. We’re prepared for anything, and we’re here to support the entire hospital team,” Perez said. 

Focused on Moffitt’s Mission 

Despite the intense conditions, there is a deep sense of commitment and purpose shared among the teams. Every person and every role are vital, not just for getting through the storm, but for ensuring that patients feel safe and cared for, regardless of the circumstances outside. 

Working during a hurricane activation is no small feat. It requires resilience, dedication and a strong sense of duty. Whether it’s Environmental Services keeping the hospital clean, the clinical team caring for patients or the security team maintaining safety, each team member plays an essential role. Together, they ensure that Moffitt can continue its mission, even in the most challenging of circumstances. The commitment and teamwork shown during these times not only highlight the strength of the Moffitt family but also reinforce the unwavering dedication to patient care and safety.