Burlington County Man Overcomes Coronavirus, Reunites With Family

BURLINGTON COUNTY, NJ — A Burlington County man who lost his wife and his mother to the coronavirus recently enjoyed an emotional reunion with his grandson after overcoming the virus.

Ralph Trincone, a 70-year-old retired firefighter, was greeted by a long embrace from his grandson in front of Virtua Hospital in Marlton moments after being discharged from the hospital.

Trincone was soon greeted by the other members of his family, who gave him a posted and more hugs. Together for the first time in more than a month, the family was celebrating the bittersweet moment that would mark the next phase of Trincone’s recovery.

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Trincone had just spent 34 days in the hospital battling the coronavirus — including two-plus weeks on a ventilator — and was headed to a local rehabilitation center to continue his recuperation, according to hospital officials.

He departed the hospital to a clapback celebration from staff before going outside for his family reunion. Outside, he was met by his grandson and four daughters, happy to see their father but still stinging from the loss of their mother and Ralph’s wife of nearly 44 years, Marie. She also tested positive for the coronavirus and passed away shortly after, on April 5.

Compounding the tragedy, Trincone’s 90-year-mother, Blanche, succumbed to the coronavirus on the same day.

Because of the hardship and heartache they have experienced, the Trincone family didn’t wish to speak with the media, according to a hospital spokesperson.

However, they wanted to share their story in order to put names and faces to this devastating virus, and to remind people everywhere of the importance of following all possible safety measures to protect themselves and others from the coronavirus.

See related: NJ Coronavirus Updates: Here's What You Need To Know