Long Island Nurse Says 'I Struggled To Breathe With This Virus'

HOLTSVILLE, 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 health crisis.

Marcus Brown nominated his girlfriend Desiree Davis, a Holtsville resident who began her first days as a nurse at Long Island Community Hospital in the thick of the coronavirus pandemic. Davis, formerly a nurse aide at the East Patchogue hospital, graduated nursing school and found herself on the front lines of the health crisis as soon as she started her new job.

"Desiree was thrown to the lions, tigers, bears and the wolves when she became a nurse," Brown told Patch. "She was hired last month and has been put on the front lines of this pandemic as she is going through orientation. Desiree has always been a fighter being a single mother, working two jobs while struggling to graduate nursing school."

Soon after starting her new position, Davis tested positive for COVID-19. Brown says that despite having asthma she fought off the virus during a two week isolation and is getting ready to return to work.

"I am so proud of how strong Desiree is. She is an inspiration to me, her daughter and to this community. "

Davis' experience fighting the virus has given her even more motivation to help patients.

"I know how I felt when I struggled to breathe fighting this virus," she said. I want to continue helping people suffering from this virus and let them know that they are never alone."

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.