Front Line Fighters: Profiles Of Coronavirus Local Heroes

WANTAGH, 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.

Bryan Levin, of Wantagh, nominates his wife, Jennifer Zeplin, who works at Southside Hospital in Bay Shore. Zeplin is an administrator of nursing in the emergency room and Levin says she and her co-worker Katelyn Murray have made an effort to keep the morale of patients up and give them something to do while in coronavirus isolation. The two women have collected and distributed donations of books, crosswords, puzzles and games for patients to pass the time.

"Besides being an incredible nurse, Jen is an even better mom and wife, spending all of her time when home with her two-year-old daughter Callie, and organizing fun, quarantine-friendly, in-home parties and activities for her family on weekends," Levin says.

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.