"My son, he walks into the fire to help people," the proud father says
Since the COVID-19 pandemic began, we're all learning about and applauding new heroes every day, especially those on the frontlines risking their lives to save ours.
But TD Bank's Marc Carozza has known one for many years - his 23-year-old son Nicholas, who has been working as an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) for American Medical Response (AMR) in New Haven and Bridgeport Connecticut, one of the busiest areas on the East Coast during this unprecedented time.
Marc, a TD Financial Service Representative in West Haven, is bursting with pride along with concern, during the past two months, as his son works multiple shifts, currently with most involving patients with COVID-19. That's why he makes sure he speaks with his son every evening following his shift, even if it's as late as 3 AM.
"As a parent, you naturally worry about your children, but he looks at these patients as people he needs to help," Marc said. "As they say, most people run from the fire, but my son, he walks into the fire to help people."
Nicholas himself is incredibly modest about his achievements and the courage he has shown in the face of this pandemic.
"What motivates me is knowing that I am and will be a big part of helping a sick patient become healthy again," Nicholas said. "Being a part of that team is what motivates me."
Nicholas, a graduate of Quinnipiac University, has worked as an EMT since graduating in 2018. His love of helping people is taking him in a new direction as he will begin his studies at Fairfield University's Nursing School at the end of the month. He is still deciding whether to be a registered nurse or physician's assistant.
While there are many stories of medical professionals who are considering leaving the field entirely, Marc notes that Nicholas' devotion to helping people is just a "normal part of his character."
"I couldn't be prouder of my son, " Marc said.
TD Bank salutes the amazing work that Nicholas is doing and takes pride that Marc is part of the TD family. For more stories like that of the Carozza family, please visit Backbone of the Economy.