LI Coronavirus Hero: 'Mom, I Can't Leave My Patients Alone'

MEDFORD NY — As Long Islanders practice social distancing and make personal sacrifices as part of the fight against the coronavirus pandemic, many look to those on the front lines as inspiration. Patch will be highlighting Long Islanders who are going above and beyond in their work and community to help during the COVID-19 health crisis.

Kristin Pucilowski's daughter is only 21 years old but has shown courage during the pandemic, she says. Jacy Lawrence is a nursing assistant who is on her way to becoming a nurse. She works at Long Island Community Hospital in East Patchogue.

Pucilowski told Patch she begged her daughter to not continue working, worried about her safety.

"She told me, 'This is what I am meant to do, it’s my calling'. She comes home hurting with her skin reacting to wearing her mask all day but always vowing to return to her next shift."

Lawrence spends long shifts working with extremely sick COVID-19 patients, her mom says.

“Mom, I can’t leave my patients alone who may die,” Lawrence told her mother.

If you know someone who should be featured—a health care worker, a first responder, a volunteer or anyone making a difference— email us at jboydsweet@gmail.com to nominate your local hero.