Window cleaners in superhero costumes scale UPMC hospital facade

Employees of Allegheny Window Cleaning Inc. rappelled down the exterior of UPMC Children's Hospital on Friday, dressed as Spider-Man, Superman, Batman, and Captain America. The crew washed windows while waving to families and staff inside the building. This annual event serves as a surprise for patients undergoing medical care.

Edward Hetrick, working as Superman, described the day as a beautiful opportunity to help the children. He noted that the group has performed these costumed cleanings for several years. Hetrick said his favorite aspect is watching the kids get super happy while they are in for checkups or hospital stays. The costumed workers aim to provide a distraction from the routine of hospital visits.

One child inside the hospital identified Spider-Man as a favorite when asked to choose a hero. The interaction highlighted the direct connection between the workers on the ledge and the patients in the rooms. The crew views their task as more than removing dirt from glass. They see it as a way to lighten the mood for children fighting health battles.

Parents also reacted to the spectacle. Melody Collins, a parent at the hospital, said it was interesting to see the workers dressed up while cleaning. She joked that the crew could come to her house to clean windows as well. The event brought a moment of levity to the clinical environment.

Hetrick emphasized the simple nature of the gesture. He stated that the goal is to show the community that small actions can brighten someone's day. The superheroes finished their shift with the hope that the children would have a great day despite their circumstances. The clean windows remained the tangible result of the performance.