Front Line Fighters: Profiles Of Coronavirus Local Heroes

PLAINVIEW, 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.

Jennifer Watters-Delahunt wanted to spotlight the efforts of her aunt Wendy Jansky. Janksy has been an operating room nurse at Plainview Hosptial for 30 years and is managing to maintain a positive attitude as the coronavirus pandemic peaks on Long Island. Jansky trained as a nurse in the U.S. Army and has become the de facto matriarch of family, Watters-Delahunt says. She has seven grandchildren, five children, and over 15 nieces and nephews.

"She makes sure to reach out to all of us to make sure that we are staying inside and doing what we can to stay healthy. She is showing bravery because she doesn’t turn down shifts and is working at the hospital on a constant basis wherever they need her, putting herself in harm's way while always downplaying the danger to herself. She always talks about the success stories at the hospital and the discharges first to keep things positive."

Janksy's family says her caring extends beyond her work at the hospital. She starts every day by texting inspirational quotes to her brother, who is immune-compromised, and shops for him in the store.

"She continues to put the needs of all of us before herself not only at work but after work, too. She is a woman who exemplifies, love, strength, caring and an amazing work ethic."