New Hyde Park Heroes: Help Patch Recognize Difference-Makers

NEW HYDE PARK, NY — The adage "not all heroes wear capes" is one that's apparent in society now, more than ever. Countless people are putting themselves in danger by simply showing up to work in essential roles for our communities, risking possible infection from the new coronavirus. Doctors, nurses, police and grocery store workers alike are just some professions with a high potential for exposure to the virus.

In Northport, Steven Zacharevitz volunteers as a firefighter and emergency medical technician in addition to working as an EMT in Bay Shore, Centereach and Central Islip. In Mastic Beach, Jane McCarthy works directly with COVID-19 patients at Long Island Community Hospital as a nurse. When she comes home from her shifts, she doesn't go inside her home — she lives in a camper in her driveway to protect her children from the virus.

We know you've encountered or seen them around town, and we want to help recognize as many of these heroes as possible. Let us know about those making a difference in this difficult time by filling out the form below and we'd be happy to share their impact with the rest of the community.