The Houston Texans sent four vaccinated health care workers to Super Bowl LV in Tampa Bay as part of the NFL's celebration of frontline medical heroes.

Last week, TORO and Texans cheerleaders surprised four employees at Texas Children's Hospital West Campus with the news and gift bags for their upcoming trip. The Texans sent Texas Children's Hospital West Campus Pediatric Intensive Care Unit Medical Director Dr. Matthew Pesek, nurses Matt Rivera and Bhumi Patel and respiratory therapist Kaitlin Hernandez to Sunday's game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Kansas City Chiefs.

"It means a lot to share the experience with those I know well, have worked with for years and who I've worked alongside during the pandemic," Dr. Matthew Pesek said after receiving his ticket.

Of the 22,000 fans in attendance at Super Bowl LV, approximately 7,500 were vaccinated health care workers either as guests of the NFL or one of the 32 clubs from their communities.

"It's pretty neat to be recognized by the NFL and the Texans," Kaitlin Hernandez, Respiratory Therapist said. "It's incredible that people are noticing and recognizing the work we do. It makes us all feel so good!"

Matt Rivera, RN said that he felt like he won the lottery with this opportunity.

"These dedicated health care workers continue to put their own lives at risk to serve others, and we owe them our ongoing gratitude," NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell said. "We hope in a small way that this initiative will inspire our country and recognize these true American heroes. This is also an opportunity to promote the importance of vaccination and appropriate health practices, including wearing masks in public settings."

"I still can't believe I got to have this experience," Bhumi Patel, RN said. "I almost fell out of my chair when they told me I was going!"

The NFL also recognized health care heroes around the country through a variety of special moments both in the stadium and during the CBS broadcast.