Nassau EMS Mourns Loss Of Beloved Volunteer With 'Contagious Smile'

GLEN COVE, NY — Glen Cove is mourning the loss of a beloved 19-year-old emergency medical technician, who died in the line of duty.

Susan Giovanniello suffered an "unspecified medical emergency" shortly after a shift and died, the Nassau County fire marshal told News 12. Her death Monday was announced by the City of Glen Cove Volunteer EMS Corps, where Giovanniello served as a volunteer responding to emergency calls.

Giovanniello rose up from Glen Cove EMS Explorer Post 1072. Colleagues praised her for her dedication to the profession and willingness to go beyond the call of duty.

"Susan, with her contagious smile and demeanor, put forth calm in stressful situations as it related to patient care," the City of Glen Cove EMS wrote in a Facebook post announcing her death. "Her enthusiasm for training and teamwork with the Corps will be greatly missed; she is a hero and will live on in our hearts forever."

The Glen Cove Volunteer EMS Corps launched an online fundraising campaign to support her family.

"Susan was known by everyone as always having the brightest smile in the room," fundraising organizers wrote. "Susan always offered a hand to hold when her peers were having a bad day or even just to make them smile."

Giovanniello was an EMT at Glen Cove EMS for over a year. Before serving as an EMT, she served in the Glen Cove EMS explorer post for a few years. Susan served as secretary for the explorers, the campaign said.

"She was an amazing role model, co-worker, and friend. She will forever be missed and never be forgotten," organizers wrote.

As of Tuesday morning, the campaign had raised about $9,000 out of its goal of $30,000.

For those who wish to pay their respects to Giovanniello and support her family during this difficult time, there will be a wake at Dodge Thomas Funeral Home on Wednesday from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. A funeral is planned Thursday at 10 a.m. at St. Rocco's Church in Glen Cove.

Giovanniello was the beloved daughter of Lou and Julie, and loving sister of Jessica and Michael, according to her obituary.