Watch: Today's Front Line Fighter Motivates ER Staff With Humor

BAY SHORE, 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.

Maggie Siliato is a registered nurse working in the emergence room at Southside Hospital in Bay Shore. She nominates Matthew Schwartz, an ER physician she works with at Southside.

Siliato calls him "the hero of the ER. Dr. Schwartz gives inspirational speeches almost daily to keep the morale alive in the emergency department while dealing with this pandemic."

Watch one of Dr. Schwartz' speeches, where he channels a coach in the locker room, helping to inspire the healthcare workers he works with daily.

"'We’re all in this together is his motto and he’s there to make us laugh and remind us that we’re all part of the same team."

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.