LI Coronavirus Heroes: A Local EMT And Volunteer Does Extra

NORTHPORT, 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.

Today Ali Gilday nominates Steven Zacharevitz from Northport. He volunteers as a firefighter and EMT in his hometown of Northport in addition to working as an EMT in Bay Shore, Centereach and Central Islip.

Gilday says "he has been working tirelessly during this pandemic, picking up extra shifts wherever the help is needed to aid people in need without thought for himself."

While volunteering and working on the front lines of the coronavirus pandemic, Zacharevitz is continuing his studies online to become a paramedic.

"He’s incredibly proud that he gets to help people every day whether that be volunteering at home or doing his job when he goes to work. No one is more deserving of a little spotlight than him," Gilday told Patch.

Another friend echoed the nomination. Robert Morsch told Patch that "every day [Zacharevitz] saves lives of those all over Long Island."

"Recently I talked to Steve about how the current situation has been affecting him. He shared with me that he had to pronounce eight people dead in their own homes over the last week. He told me how hard it was to cope with witnessing loss like that. But when I offered my condolences and sympathy for him, he told me he was lucky. He said he was lucky to have the support system he does, and he was glad he could be there for the people that needed help."

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.