Huntington Hospital Nurse Dies From Coronavirus

HUNTINGTON, NY — John Abruzzo, a registered nurse at Huntington Hospital, died from the new coronavirus, officials confirmed to Patch.

Abruzzo, 63, of Seaford, began working at Huntington Hospital as a security officer in 2002 and became a nurse in 2007.

"We at Huntington Hospital are devastated by the loss of our colleague John Abruzzo, RN, from COVID-19," the hospital said in a statement. "He was among the brave caregivers dedicated to their patients during this challenging time. We mourn his loss and hold his family in our thoughts and prayers."

Abruzzo leaves behind a wife and two children. His brother also works at the hospital.

Abruzzo's wife, Mary, told Newsday he died Thursday. Abruzzo had diabetes, which his wife said was under control, but he had no other underlying health issues. His wife didn't know when he tested positive for COVID-19.

Susan Knoepffler, chief nursing officer at Huntington Hospital, said the hospital is a family and in mourning.

"But as we grieve, we will also persevere in caring for our patients with the grace and strength that John displayed day in and day out," Knoepffler said in a statement.