Hero: Maplewood Nurse Works With ER Patients Each Day

MAPLEWOOD, NJ — Growing up in Maplewood, Jennifer Okorie always heard that her big sister Patricia Okorie wanted to be a nurse.

"She told everyone she has wanted to be a nurse since she was 12 years old," said Jennifer, one of four sisters, this week. Both she and Patricia still live in Maplewood.

Jennifer sent in a Patch form last week to nominate Patricia as a local hero, as Patricia heads to St. Barnabas Medical Center in Livingston each day to work as an ER nurse amid the coronavirus pandemic.

"She is always putting others first and doing what she can to make sure that everyone is okay," said Jennifer. "If I ever have any issues or concerns in life, I always go to her because she gives the best advice."

Now Patricia is using her skills and sensitivity with patients.

"I constantly worry about her every day she goes to work," said Jennifer. "I see on the news about how many areas don’t have the proper equipment to care for patients and protect the healthcare workers. I’ve had multiple conversations with her about it, and she always reassured me that she’s fine. However, it doesn’t prevent me from worrying about her."

Patricia Okorie has been a nurse for four and a half years, Jennifer said.

"During this pandemic, it’s really terrifying not knowing what is to come and how you will be affected by it," Jennifer said. "but my sister is always up for the challenge."

Here are statewide coronavirus resources:

• NJ COVID-19 Information Hub: https://covid19.nj.gov/
• General COVID-19 questions: 2-1-1
• NJ COVID-19 hotline: (800) 222-1222

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