IN THE EARLY STAGES OF THE PANDEMIC WE WANTED TO HELP EVERYONE IMMENSELY IMPACTED BY COVID-19. AS THE WORLD HAS SHIFTED, WE WERE REMINDED OF OUR MOST BASIC SHARED VALUE—ALL OF US DEPEND ON EACH OTHER FOR A HEALTHY COMMUNITY. WE HAVE BEEN CONTINUALLY STRUCK BY THE ACTS OF KINDNESS AND HUMANITY THAT WE SAW EMERGE – FROM DOCTORS WORKING LONG HOURS TO PEOPLE TAKING CARE OF THEIR NEIGHBORS AND MANY MORE STORIES. THAT IS WHY WE DID THE HOMERS FOR HEROES INITIATIVE TO SUPPORT AND HONOR THE EVERYDAY HEROES.
We are thrilled to introduce our first hero of the 2020 season, Jerry Caruso! Jerry is the founder of the Caruso Family Charities, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization dedicated to assisting families who have a child, adolescent or young adult being treated in Colorado for a life-threatening disease or life-altering event. Through their Funding Families program, their mission is to relieve some financial pressures, such as rent, insurance payments, energy bills, co-pays or gas, so the family may focus on caring for their sick child. Jerry has dedicated his life to helping families in need and is absolutely a hero to the families he serves. He encourages others to make a positive impact in someone’s life, whether it is big or small. “Not every day is going to offer us a chance to save somebody’s life, but every day will give us an opportunity to affect one.” We thank you Jerry and the Caruso Family Charities for all that you do in your community!
Introducing our next hero, Renee Rust! Renee is a special education teacher for children with severe developmental disabilities in low income areas of Queens, NY. Mrs. Rust has dedicated her career and free time to supporting children who require extra love, affection, education and care. Beyond her day to day responsibilities, she makes sure her students are cared for by buying “in school outfits” for children who are living in shelters. She provides these children with fresh, clean clothes that she personally washes for them each week. Renee is a hero to her students and goes above and beyond her call of duty to make sure every child feels loved and cared for. Thank you for all that you do, Renee!
Dr. Andrew Myers along with his wife Dr. Asa Oxner have dedicated their lives to saving others. During their time in Africa fighting Ebola in Sierra Leone, they were inspired to start a foundation called Upgrade for Africa. Upgrade for Africa helps fund the schooling of African medical students. They are currently sponsoring 2 Sierra Leonean medical students to go to Medical School in Uganda. Along with their foundation, they have traveled and assisted the victims of the devastating hurricanes in Puerto Rico and the Bahamas on the Flights of Hope. Both are currently running an outreach clinic under the USF School of Medicine and have been on the front lines during the Coronavirus pandemic at Tampa General Hospital. Thank you Dr. Andrew Myers and Dr. Asa Oxner for dedicating your lives to saving others and we are so inspired by the incredible work you are doing!
Our next hero is Teddy Silva! Teddy is a 19-year old based in Cartegena, Colombia. He provides free baseball training and games to over 100 children that live in vulnerable communities. His mission is to create a space for these athletes to not only develop their baseball skills but provide the girls and boys a healthy recreational activity. Sports and recreational activities are integral in children’s lives, allowing them to create friendships while playing the game they love. Teddy and the other coaches are mentors to the children in the program and help them develop personally and athletically. Thank you for being a hero and role model, Teddy!
Our next hero is Angela Kempsey. She is a cashier at a local grocery store. Besides being a frontline worker and always greeting her customers with a smile, Angela started The Tea Giver Project to give boxes of tea to as many people as possible in the hopes of giving them comfort during this time. As one customer said, “Angela is an amazing cashier, always smiling and singing to brighten our moods. She uplifts everyone especially during these times. Angela gives out complimentary boxes of tea to everyone because as she says, “Everyone deserves to feel comforted during this time. These times may be rough but it is most important to continue this work to give tea to as many people as I possibly can.” Thank you Angela, for showing us that something as simple as giving out tea can make you an everyday hero!
Our next hero is Jacquelynn White. She is a nurse practitioner in New Jersey and has dedicated her entire working life to the fight against cancer. Every day she goes to work knowing there’s the possibility of the tragedy of another patient slipping away, but she still keeps a smile on her face and is full of energy for her patients day in and out, many of whom are terminally ill. The person who nominated her says “Her fight to save people is never-ending. Everyday it's a new patient, a potential friend and it’s her unwavering loyalty to making them better or providing them and their families with love and support when they succumb to this awful cancer that makes her not only an angel, but a hero amongst us.” We agree. Thank you Jacquelynn for all that you do.
Our next hero is Gail. She is a guidance counselor responsible for middle schoolers, but that doesn’t stop her from helping everyone. During this pandemic, Gail has been on calls all day with her students and parents of her students checking in to make sure they’re okay. She’s going to the grocery store for them and even giving food from her own pantry to families in need. Outside of just her students, Gail is also taking care of her neighbors delivering food to those who can’t leave their homes. As the person who nominated her says, “I saw her every day being a hero in her school building, but now with the school building closed I still see her being the biggest hero I know every day, at all hours of the day. Gail, thank you for taking care of those who need it in such a difficult time. We agree that you are a hero!
"Our next hero is Beverly. She has been a volunteer with a New Jersey Volunteer First Aid Squad for over 38 years!! She served as Captain during September 11th and currently serves as Crew Chief on Friday Nights and a Board Trustee. During this time, she has been working her shifts plus extra weekend shifts and many backup calls to help support her community. She also has been supporting the local food bank and buying groceries and supplies for those who need. This is in addition to her full time job, taking care of her husband who is sick and their daughter. We don’t know how Beverly manages to do all of this, but we know her community is grateful that she does, and so are we. Thank you, Beverly for inspiring all of us!
Our next hero is Javier who has one of the biggest hearts and most optimistic attitudes we’ve seen. He is a loyal and hardworking rehabilitation aide who works tirelessly with COVID-19 patients on the frontline. During this pandemic, Javier sadly lost his father and his family lost their home to a huge fire. Thankfully no one was hurt in the fire, but everything was lost. Despite these difficulties, Javier remains optimistic continuing to serve his patients and take care of his friends and family with kindness and love. What a beautiful example Javier is of continuing to live in kindness despite life’s difficulties. Your attitude makes you a hero to us.
We know how difficult distance learning is on not only for the students, but also the teachers! We want to make sure we recognize all of the teachers who are our everyday heroes, always! Our next hero is Michelle. She is an elementary school music teacher taking care of 19 classes of 366 students. Despite distance learning being difficult, she always keeps her spirits up and tries to be the best that she can for her students day in and day out. Michelle was nominated by her son, who is also immensely grateful for all that Michelle does for him, even when she is busy taking care of 366 other kids 😊. Let’s hear it for our teachers, and especially Michelle!
Our next hero is Joseph. He is a New York City sanitation worker. Every day (even during this pandemic), he gets up and goes to work to take care of what needs to be done. Since sanitation workers operate under the radar of the public eye, he does his job without any fanfare or praise, but continues to take care of the city every day. Joseph that is under appreciated, but that stops today. Thank you to Joseph and others like him for taking care of our cities and us every day! You are our hero!
Our next hero is Michael. He was nominated by his son who says, “My father has done more for his community than any other man I know, and not once has he ever expected or wanted anything in return. He is a humble and generous man who always puts the needs of others above his own, even at the expense of his own health.” Michael has spent his entire life in public service – 30 years in law enforcement and 35 years as a volunteer firefighter. For the last 11 years, he has been working closely with the FBI on a child exploitation task force dedicated to devoted to investigating and holding accountable those persons who attempt to victimize our children over the internet. He says this is the work he is most proud of. Despite his busy schedule, Michael always makes time for his children and his community. His son says “I am continuously inspired by my father” and we agree. Thank you Michael for all that you do!
Our next hero is Navid who is doing his cardiology fellowship and works on the front lines of COVID taking care of patients in the intensive care unit at a hospital. He works 16 hour shifts 6-7 days a week to help keep his community safe- often sacrificing quality time he could be spending with his loved ones and family. He even gave up his vacation time for the year to help offload the influx of patients during this difficult time. We appreciate all those who are risking their lives every day to make sure everyone is safe. Navid, you are our hero!
"Our next hero is Joseph. The person who nominated him said “He is the kind of guy who always puts people he loves before himself and he put EVERYONE before himself and did the job he was called to do.” Joseph works as a physician assistant in the emergency room. Joe contracted COVID just before his daughter was born and as a result missed her birth and the first few days of her life. He made that sacrifice because if his willingness to help his community during these times, and always! Joseph is our hero!
Christina is our hero. She run's Miracles schools, which is a non-profit School for students with special needs and other behavioral issues. She is going above and beyond to keep her students engaged during this time of distance learning. Some of her students are on the autism spectrum and the destruction in their daily routine has been stressful for both the student and their families. Other students have behavioral issues that make learning at home a challenge. Christina has set up special distance learning curriculum and activities to keep the students engaged and give help to overwhelmed parents. She has also taken the time to personally visit the students that are having problems and tutor them in person all while, of course, honoring social distancing guidelines. She has also arranged for weekly food donations to be sent to families of students that are suffering economically during these times and having food difficulties. She truly deserves to be recognized for her efforts. Thank you Pete Alonso and Homers 4 Heroes for what you are doing.
Our next hero is Gayla. She works at a senior living community and during these times, she has been a hero to everyone there. She works 14 hour shifts on the weekend along with her regular shifts during the week to make sure everyone is safe. She helps takes people’s minds off of what’s going on by playing games, running activities and more. When a COVID wave hit the center, she still went to work every day with a smile because she knew it was her job to care for these residents. Thank you for all you do for our elderly community, Gayla. You are our hero!
Our next hero is Dena. She is a high school teacher and was nominated by one of her students from 10 years ago – that’s how much and for how long her impact is felt. She has been teaching for 27 years and says, “I have found myself pondering the question of whether I inspire the students or if the students inspire me more…there is hope for the future.” In addition to teaching, for 13 years Dena has also helped her local community by leading the school's Coexistence Club which works with the Embracing Our differences program that uses art to help create unity among others even if there are differences. The lasting impact of a teacher can last a lifetime and Dena is one of those teachers who's positive impact on her students and community is the example that all should strive for. Thank you, Dena!
Our next hero is Ken. We have deep respect and admiration for all of those heroes who serve our country and we are excited to honor Ken who was drafted in 1966 and served during the Vietnam war. The person who nominated him says, “With no hesitation or fear, Ken was always the first person to step up and take charge of unknown situations.” Today he always puts a smile on everyone else’s face and always puts others first.” Thank you, Ken for your service and for being our hero.
Our next hero is Peri. She has a rare form of Muscular Dystrophy and is on a ventilator 24/7 with a tracheotomy tube and is mobile via wheelchair. However, Peri does not let her disability definite her. She is a positive, intellectual and sharp-witted collegiate who is in college, striving to make the world a better place for individuals like her and continuing to step out of line by constantly challenging society’s expectations and debunking the confining social construct placed daily on people with disabilities. As she says, “I emphasize the need to put the “person” first and allowing my disability to be a blip in the equation.” Peri has raised over $600,000 via Team Peri and Chai Lifeline to help those with life threatening illnesses. About the funds raised, she says “Chai Lifeline gave us a chance to be a family by paving a path for us to thrive on and allowing me to accept myself, normalize my surroundings and accept my “differences.” Now it is our time to give back.” Peri you are our hero for not letting your disability define you and instead remaining positive and raising funds for those who need support.
Our next hero is Aaron. He is an EMT for a private ambulance company and has been working tirelessly to help the community not only with COVID cases, but also helping patients with every day emergency medical needs. Some weeks he works twelve hours a day/seven days a week, but he always does it with a smile and never complains. We are deeply appreciative of Aaron’s dedication and service as he risks his life every day to save ours. Aaron, you are a hero!
Our next heroes are mother and son duo – Jennifer and Jack. Their husband/father, John, passed due to a 9-11 related illness in 2009. In honor of him, Jennifer created the Johnny Mac Foundation with the goal of carrying on the inspiring work that he started – building a Community Center in their hometown and supporting organizations dear to John’s heart- groups dedicated to the support of Firefighters and First Responders. The Foundation is always there to lend a hand or provide assistance to someone in need. Today, Jack is following in his father’s footsteps as a member of his local Fire Department drill team. Jennifer and Jack took their huge loss and are using it to serve their community. With deepest thanks to John for being a hero and to Jennifer and Jack for being our heroes today.
Our next hero is Jacqueline. She is a neonatal ICU nurse, saving and nursing back to health premature babies. A few years ago, Jacqueline was hit from behind by a person texting and driving. She needed spinal surgery to save her leg and nerve damage that began threatening her ability to walk. Ultimately, that surgery was botched and not a success, and a second round of spinal surgery was needed. This, all while studying at Molloy College. This year, Jacqueline has been caring for new mothers and babies that were COVID-19 positive. She moved out of her home because her father is high risk, and contunues to make the ultimate sacrifice and do everything she can to nurse those newborn babies back to health. NICU nurses have to be on their game every shift, and the smallest of mistakes could be fatal. The person who nominated her says, “Jacqueline goes above and beyond the call of duty to put a smile on everyone’s faces. She touches the hearts of all she comes in contact with. With every roadblock that comes in her way, she breaks right through it and keeps pushing forward.” Jacqueline, thank you for all you do to take care of the young babies who need you. You are our hero!
Our next hero is Dan. He told us, “In my eyes, I’m just a normal guy doing what I have loved doing since I was 18, serving my country.” We are so appreciative to Dan and other members of the service. Dan has been in the Air Force for 14 years; he has been deployed to Afghanistan, Iraq and Guam, among others. After ten years as a military policeman, today he is a Special Agent with the Air Force Office of Special Investigations. According to the person who nominated him, “He is humble, kind, devoted father of two and never looks for credit he just looks to do his job and get the job done right. His mother is currently going through her latest round of chemo following a relapse after her last battle with breast cancer as well.” Thank you, Dan for all you do!
Our next hero is Alexandra, She is a nurse. During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in New York, she spent countless hours caring for her patients. According to the person who nominated her, “I know she was exhausted, her face was visibly bruised from wearing her mask, and she experienced things she had never seen before while working as a nurse. However, she did not complain or quit EVER. I think a hero is someone who may be a little scared, but does it anyway because they know it’s their duty.” We agree! Alexandra, thank you for taking care of others in your job as a nurse; we are deeply grateful to you. You are our hero!
Kelly has a rare neurological disease called Norman Pic type C, there is no treatment or cure and it is always fatal. Kelly has volunteered for numerous trials and test in hope of helping the doctors and scientist find a cure for this dreaded disease. She is 41 years old now and has battled this monster for more than 20 years with no complaints or and WHY ME’s. She now lives in a senior center as she requires 24 hour attention. She spends her time watching movies and the Mets.
"Our next hero is James. Beginning in March, he’s worked 12+ hours daily at a COVID testing site staying at a hotel so as not to infect his family. They have tested over 1000 people daily at the height of the pandemic, and he has decontaminated over 2000 medical staff and personnel during his assignment thus far. He’s been a volunteer firefighter for 42 years and had held every office in the fire service. He is compassionate and caring and takes the safety of the medics and civilians very seriously to send them all home free of germs and contaminants. There are a lot of heroes during this pandemic and James is definitely one of them! Thank you James for all you do.
"Our next hero is Paul. He has dedicated his life to helping the less privileged kids and families around the world, irrespective of their religion, cultural background, race, gender or sexual orientation. He funds his own non-profit thebrotherskeeper_mission with minimal help to fulfill his passion of bringing smiles and happiness to kids and families in places around the world. He created programs to empower kids in rural areas by providing educational scholarships, creating sport programs for kids to turn them away from the life of crime, providing feminine supplies for teen girls and also help fight hunger in rural areas. Paul’s selflessness and kindness makes our world a better place. Thank you Paul; you are our hero!
Our next heroes are Trish and Susan, who share a unique bond and story. In February 2009 Trish became ill. Her liver began to fail her due to the medication she was on to treat her cancer. She went into complete liver failure. It was here that with the intervention of her doctors , Trish was placed on the transplant list. That evening a young girl in Wisconsin named Laura died. Her family including her mother Susan, decided to donate her organs. Trish was the recipient of Laura's liver. On the day of Laura's funeral, Trish woke up from her coma. With the gift of Laura's liver, Trish has thrived! She is an elementary special education teacher, gym owner, and advocate for organ donation. Susan has written a book titled, "Permission to Thrive." It is the story of recovery and healing from grief. The book takes you on her journey of meeting the recipient of Laura's organ, Trish, and how that bond between Trish and the Susan, together have healed, accepted, and moved forward with gratitude and they spread that message to all that they meet. The bond between the families is remarkable. What a beautiful story. Trish and Susan are definitely our heroes!
Our next hero is Bob. He is the founder of @angelashouseli whose mission is to identify families caring for medically frail children, so they may help them obtain supportive services to improve the quality of life for the children and their family. Bob’s daughter Angela suffered severe brain damage during birth. When going home with her, they realized how few services there were available to help parents in their situation. Sadly, Angela passed away just after her first birthday. Bob and his wife Angie turned their grief into a non-profit to help other families. Angela’s House has been around for more than 27 years now and they have helped countless families. Bob is our hero!
Our next hero is Ines who is the director of the Grand Coalition of Seniors, a part of @grandstsettlement where she has worked for more than 15 years. The person who nominated her said “Ines has created a safe haven where seniors of all nationalities and races come together to socialize and learn about the cultures of their neighbors; she has fostered a community that gives seniors support and love.” When the pandemic first hit, Ines began working 14 hour days, 7 days a week. She knew that the seniors needed access to food and supplies, so she set up food deliveries for seniors and then a sophisticated food pantry where participants are given time slots to pick up their food. She takes care of more than 350 people every week. Ines, thank you for caring so deeply for the elders in our community. You are our hero!
Our next hero is Jeremy. According to the person who nominated him, “He is a huge source of inspiration for all that he does with special needs children, as a volunteer emergency service member and for the nursing home he runs.” Jeremy does so much, we don’t even know where to start. All we know is that Jeremy is our hero for everything he does and all those he cares for, especially now during this pandemic. Thank you, Jeremy!
Our next hero is Cameron Ryke. He works in the health care field as an EEG technician. When the virus first started, he was working at a private practice and was furloughed from his job, at about the same time as his first child was born. Even knowing the risk of working in the healthcare field with a newborn at home, he found a new job in the hospital because he knew that his job was going to be needed. The person who nominated him says, “He could have opted to stay home and collect unemployment but knew it was more important to help out. He takes the utmost precautions when he gets home to keep his wife and newborn safe. He is very humble about his sacrifice, he feels like his work is important and he needs to continue to do it to help others.” Cameron is our hero for doing what needs to be done and taking care of others. Thank you Cameron and congratulations on your new baby!
Our next hero is Kim. She is a nurse who has worked tirelessly for the last several years, always ensuring the best care for everyone she sees. This year she oversees two Covid-19 floors. The person who nominated her says, “Kim is the kind of nurse you want your family to have when they are ill or in need of care. She will advocate for the best care and comfort for your loved one, always thinking of what she can do to make sure they are well taken care of. I've seen her dig into her own pockets on countless occasions to provide new clothes for patients, birthday treats for those that can't see their families, books to help break up the monotony of recovery. What's most striking to me is how Kim will always "run into the fire" and during the peak of Covid 19, she insisted on working every day she could, even picking up extra shifts to ensure the best care for her patients and to help units that were understaffed due to the virus.” Kim is absolutely our hero for everyone she takes care of and everything she does. Thank you, Kim.
Our next hero is Ashlynn. She is our youngest hero at only 9 years old. The person who nominated her said “She used her birthday money to purchase baseball gloves as part of One Glove at A Time, an initiative to knock the stigma of mental health out of the park. She has placed 16 gloves to date and is making a real difference. We are honored to have met such an kind inspiring young lady.” When Ashlynn isn't practicing her baseball skills, doing school work, and advocating for mental health she can be found shoveling snow and doing other odd jobs to raise money for acts of kindness. Most recently she raised over $2000 for Reach St. Petes. What a young and wonderful inspiration to all of us! Thank you Ashlynn fo all you do! You are our hero!
"Our next hero is Glenn. The words “above and beyond” describe this seventh grade teacher the best. His students always come first. He coaches intamual sports and attends every school function including concerts, fundraisers and games. That is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to this wondeful teacher. He has helped raise funds in memory of a former student who passed away from leukemia, surprised a student suffering from cancer with a fun experience and more. The person who nominated him says “He believes that his kids are his students for life and not just that academic year. He is available every day for extra help. There is nobody at his school that is more available for his students. Many times his extra help sessions become a safe place where students go to do their homework, to seek help on difficult topics, or to just hang out and talk about the stresses they feel in their lives. When I think of what a teacher is supposed to be, Glenn Kubik sets the example” In addition to his work as a beloved teacher, Glenn still finds time to volunteer for others, including giving his time to serve the needy in a local soup kitchen. Glenn, thank you for all you do not only for your students but for your community. You are our hero!
Meet Christine! She is a nurse at the Long Island State Veterans nursing home in Stony Brook. She worked through the pandemic not only to care for our veterans but also family members that were not allowed to visit. Many of the Vets she cared for unfortunately didn’t make it which made it even more difficult for her. She was a beacon of hope and positivity for others even though it took a huge toll on her. Christine, thank you so much for taking care of our veterans and their families during this time. Your compassion and empathy does not go unnoticed. You are our hero!
Jill Faber is our next hero! Jill is a high school college and career counselor. She is always willing to help her students in any way possible from aiding a great deal in the college admissions process, to being there for advice or just to talk and everything in between. One of Jill’s students nominated her saying “she has not only helped me in getting into my perfect college but has helped me survive. There are no words for how much of a hero she is and how much she does for anyone she meets. I don’t know where I would be without her and am so extremely greatful to have someone like her in my life.” Thank you Jill for not only being a helping hand to so many students but a listening ear as well. Your students appreciate you more than you know!
Our next hero is Jeremy, a first year medical resident on the East coast. He was pulled away from his regular ENT rotation and into the COVID-19 ICU at his hospital, where he dropped everything to help his patients. He's worked long days, overnight shifts, 24 hour shifts without complaint. He’s stayed away from his friends and family for more than four months to make sure they’d stay well. The person who nominated him says, “He is the most caring, selfless, hard-working and family-oriented person I know. His hard work as a frontline hero just proves how altruistic and compassionate of a doctor he is. With our wedding being postponed, this is really all he focuses on.” We have a great appreciation for all doctors and Jeremy is definitely our hero! Thank you, Jeremy.
"Our next hero is Major Sarah Smilow who has been caring for current and former armed forces members for the past six years. This past year, the pandemic has presented unique challenges that Sarah met with a can do, fearless attitude, working long hours screening and testing former and current military personnel and their families in addition to her regular duties. One of her colleagues says “Major Sarah Smilow is the consummate Army Officer and physician. While her accomplishments have been numerous and impressive, it is her innate compassion and empathy for her patients that sets her apart. Selfless with her time, she is always available to patients. Her caring nature and sincere demeanor has formed an indelible bond with her patients that is impossible to replicate.” Sarah volunteered to take extra rotations, screening, and testing patients in addition to her work as a rheumatology fellow. One of her patients says, “I have been the luckiest person to have had you as my doctor through all my surprising health problems. You are the best, all-around doctor, anyone could ask for- always following through! She was literally a Godsend for me. She truly cared about all the medical issues I have going on ""outside"" of the specialty area.” Thank you Major Sarah for always going above and beyond with your patients. You are a hero!
Our next hero is Diane. She has worked at a community living corporation for 25 years. The person who nominated her says “Diane is one of the most dedicated staff members they have! She cares so deeply about each and every resident. She works double shifts and any overtime when needed to ensure the clients have the best care!” Diane is so passionate about what she does and often tells anyone she meets that she doesn’t think she could ever retire because she doesn’t want to leave the residents. Diane has an amazing heart of gold and is our hero. Thank you for all that you do day in and out!
"Our next hero is Leighton Accardo! At age 7, Leighton was diagnosed with stage 4 germ cell cancer. For the past 15 months she has had 18 rounds of intense chemo, plus radiation and is about to have her 5th major surgery to remove masses in her abdomen. Leighton was a very active, athletic 7 year old before the largest tumor in her abdomen invaded her left sciatic nerve, paralyzing her lower left leg. Leighton now wears an AFO brace on her foot and calf to help her walk. Leighton still participates in her sports and remains on her teams, but limited mobility has been frustrating for her. All of Leighton’s teammates love her and are so excited when she can make it out to a practice or game. They win tournaments for her, always bringing her home a ring or a medal. Through all of this, Leighton never complains and tries her best every day. Her new sport has become beating cancer! Leighton’s bravery and strength inspires us beyond words. Thank you for being our hero, Leighton and keep fighting on!"
Meet our next hero, Diamond! Throughout the pandemic, Diamond reported to her job as a social worker at NYC Health + Hospitals in Queens. She went to the hospital to assist sexual assault victims, listen to their difficult stories, console them and provide advice. This was not able to be done by Zoom and she was in the hospital working long hours. Diamond ended up contracting COVID-19, so she had to self-quarantine for 14 days with her husband but away from her children, both under age 6 for 2 weeks. Diamond continued to report to the hospital to help these women that suffered greatly in their time of need. Many forget that hospitals continued to provide other non-COVID essential services like the service she provided. Thank you Diamond for all that you do!
Our next hero is Melissa! She is a Registered Nurse working at one of the public New York City Hospitals in Brooklyn, New York. She works with an underserved community of people who have less access to healthcare than most New Yorkers. Her hospital was one of the hardest hit hospitals with COVID. During the months of March, April, and May she volunteered to be redeployed from her regular position in the Primary Care Clinic to go and work 12+ hours on the inpatient floors, directly caring for people who were infected with COVID. She volunteered to do this because she believed that she could make the greatest impact by caring directly for COVID-19 patients. She took on the work so selflessly and diligently. Currently, Melissa is back at her Primary Care clinic - educating people on COVID-19 safety precautions and preparing people for flu season. Thank you Melissa for your hard work and dedication to your patients during this time! You are so appreciated!
Sarah is an emergency room nurse at St. Luke’s hospital in Pennsylvania and works so hard to make sure everything and everyone is treated with care and is safe. Also a mother of a 16 month old Mets fan, Dominic, she does her job and comes home and is a wonderful mother. She works harder than anyone I know.
Vanessa is a dedicated English as a second language teacher in Rockland County. Throughout the pandemic, Vanessa has gone above and beyond for her students and their families. She works with them day and night to ensure they complete assignments and do not fall behind. Often modifying assignments so they are appropriate for each child. There has never been a day Vanessa didn't answer a phone call, text message or FaceTime call from her students or their parents. She advocates for her students and their families who are often unable to advocate for themselves.
Our next hero is Rebecca Albergo. She is a nurse in an area that was hit incredibly hard during this pandemic. She works incredibly hard to take care of her COVID-19 patients being there for them and also for their families. Regularly, she has Facetimes families of her patients. The person who nominated her says, “She is very compassionate with a great heart and deserves every honor bestowed upon her. She is the last person to ask for stuff like this, but in my opinion she deserves it.” We agree. Rebecca is our hero. Thank you, Rebecca.
Meet our next hero, Marisa! Marisa is a passionate and dedicated friend, employee, sister and volunteer. She spends her days as a school social worker, helping students overcome life’s obstacles. Throughout the pandemic, she worked tirelessly from home, calling students and their families doing anything she could to help. In addition, she works for an independent not for profit that helps kids with disabilities achieve greater social skills as well as a non profit that helps adults with disabilities learn life skills. Marisa also volunteers for Make-A-Wish, where she makes wishes come true for children with life threatening medical issues. She also volunteers as an assistant coach for special ed baseball, basketball and soccer. She has dedicated her life to helping others and is such an inspiration to all. The person who nominated her says, “She is kind, generous, selfless and absolutely deserves to be recognized for her achievements. She is a hero to me and a hero to many.” Thank you Marisa for being so compassionate and caring to everyone. You are our hero!
Our next hero is Dana Zupitza. She is an ICU nurse and has worked endlessly throughout this pandemic.. “always with a smile and positive attitude.” She is on the frontlines if the pandemic caring for her patients. The person who nominated her says, “Dana truly is a deserving, kind, humble, beautiful woman and obviously outstanding nurse.” Dana’s wedding is set for September 19th and her bachelorette parties and shower were both cancelled making what should be a joyous time less so. We are deeply appreciative of Dana and all she does on the frontlines. We wish her much love during her wedding and always. Thank you, Dana! You are our hero!
Our next hero is Rob Vereline, who was nominated by his son. He takes care of kids from all different social classes, and races and effects them all in a positive way. He works with local non-profits in the community to find resources for those students who are less fortunate. He created the holiday food basket program at his school, gathering foods around the holidays, so families are fed. If a family can’t pick up a basket, he hand delivers them. Rob is retiring, but is still planning on continuing the program because he truly cares about the families he works with. His son says, “his contributions to the community are countless”. We are grateful for all that Rob has done and continues to do. You are our hero!
Our next hero is Janice Lauria. She owns a gym and when it was forced to close, she made the best of a hard situation going above and beyond each day to support her family. In May, she started daily outdoor workouts for members and non-members. She carries her equipment and cardio machines to her parking lot to assure that members of the community are able to work out and follow the state guidelines. The person who nominated her says, “A true hero is someone who is dedicated. Someone who is selfless. And someone who is fearless. Regardless of the challenges that Janice and her family faced during this pandemic, she remained dedicated and positive the entire time. She is someone I look up to, someone others always can rely on and she truly deserves to be recognized for her dedication to her business, family, and community.” Janice, your community is lucky to have you! You are our hero!
Our next heroes are Marie Pellegrini and Michelle Guerriero, who were nominated by Marie's son. Teachers are always our heroes and we have a special place in our hearts for those who teach special education, which is what Marie and Michelle do. They are co-teachers and are working endlessly and tirelessly for their students. The transition to online schooling has been difficult for some students and Marie and Michelle are doing everything they can to make it as easy as possible for her students and their families. Thank you, Marie and Michelle for all you do! You are our heroes!
Our next hero is Dillan McGaughran. Dillan is an 11 year old who was diagnosed with a hereditary heart disease at age 5. Dillan had to stop playing baseball at age 9 because of this disease and has been fighting everyday since to get back on that field! This February, it was time to list Dillan for a heart transplant. He was told that if he got this transplant he could play baseball again and he was sold! He received that heart transplant on June 6, 2020 at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. Dillan’s dad who nominated him said “his bravery and courage was more than most people have within themselves. Dillan was such an inspiration for all who witnessed him and his mental, emotional and overall well being was a treat for all who came to his bedside.” He would tell all the nurses and doctors that he was planning on continuing baseball next year and made sure everyone knew he was Mets fan through and through. Dillan’s family said that there are no words to explain their gratitude to the donor and their loved ones who gave Dillan a new lease on life! Dillan has been home for a couple months now and he is doing great. He’s even playing outside with his baseball glove already! Dillan’s attitude and persistence is such an inspiration to all. You are our hero, Dillan!
Our next hero is William Pugliese. He is a dedicated employee of the United States Postal Service. He commutes quite a long way 6 days a week often in snow, sleet and rain. He never calls out of work, even when there is no power or storms. Throughout the pandemic, he has continued to go to work every day because he knew his customers were counting on him to deliver mail and packages. He has been working 12 hours shifts plus to make sur everyone is getting what they need during this uncertain time. Not only that, he does his job with a smile on his face. The person who nominated him says, “He is my hero and I know he is a hero to most of the people on his route.” We agree! Thank you Willian for all you do; you are our hero!
"Our next hero is Sharesa Johnson. All essential workers are our heroes during this time, not just those at the frontlines but all those who go into work every day and do their job during this pandemic. Sharesa is an assistant manager at a Citi retail branch in an area that was hit especially hard. The person who nominated her said “Sharesa came into work every day with a smile on her face. It was sometimes difficult to ensure the branch could remain open to provide needed services while ensuring everyone stayed safe, but she stepped up and always raised her hand to not only ensure her branch was staffed while letting other employees stay home, but also offered support to other area branches when needed.” Heroes aren’t just those you can see or those we clang bells for every night, but those who continue to help keep us running and do it with a smile on their face. Thank you Sharesa; you are our hero!
Our next hero is Steve Toler who served 24 years active duty in the United States Army, including 4 tours in Iraq and Afghanistan. He won numerous awards and medals while there, but that’s not only what makes him a hero to us or to his wife and family. Steve always puts his family first choosing a non-deployable position because it was better for his children and eventually retiring from the army to be able to be with his now-wife when she couldn’t move. His wife who nominated him says, “Steve is the most humble and kind man you will ever meet. He is a hero.” We could not agree more. Thank you for your service Steve and for being our hero!
Our next hero is Dr. Melony Samuels. She is the founder and CEO of The Campaign Against Hunger (TCAH), and is committed to serving New Yorkers in need. She began TCAH using her own money in 1998. Today it provides meals for millions of New Yorkers. Dr. Samuels has conceived and spearheaded several food security initiatives to ensure that vulnerable New Yorkers have what they need to thrive. Since the pandemic, Dr. Samuels has mobilized TCAH's resources and staff to meet the needs of vulnerable children and families in order to support food packages for families. She has overseen the distribution of more than 8.6 million meals to nearly 1 million New Yorkers and established over 250 new partnerships! Wow! Incredible. So many people are thankful for Dr. Samuels and her fight against hunger in NYc, including us! Thank you; you are our hero!
Our next hero is Joseph Spezzano. He is one of New York’s Bravest and worked through the pandemic while being as careful as possible, with his pregnant wife at home. He just had his first baby and continues to support the during a time he wishes he could be home. The person who nominated him says, “His selflessness and continued dedication make him a true hero.” We agree. Thank you, Joe for taking care of those who need it and congratulations on your new baby!
Our last hero of the season is Marius Woodward! At age 8, Marius and his family were involved in a house fire where he was the sole survivor. Marius suffered third degree burns on over 75 percent of his body and had to endure many months of surgeries. He was adopted by a loving family and has thrived in his new life despite all that has happened to him. Marius is now a burn victim advocate that speaks publicly about the beauty of being different but the stigma that comes with it. His goal is to inspire those to see the best in their situation, regardless of how hard it may be and to spread positivity and love into the world. Even though his outward appearance may have changed, he is still the same joyful person inside and that’s what matters. Keep being you and embracing your own unique story, Marius! You are inspiring many. Thanks for being our hero.