A Far Rockaway couple has teamed up to bring emergency medical relief to devastated victims of Sandy–despite being victims themselves.
John Meringolo, 57, an anesthesiologist and his wife, Margaret Meringolo, 45, a registered nurse, have been providing medical assistance to residents at a makeshift triage center at St. Francis De Sales Church on B. 129 Street.
“I saw a man this morning, he suffered a head wound when his crowbar slipped and hit him in the head as he renovated his house,” John Meringolo said. After applying pressure on the wound, he sent the man to a local hospital for further treatment.
An 89-year-old man suffering from the cold in his high-rise building was also rushed to the center in the afternoon.
“We just want to make sure all the victims are safe. There are many people without heat or power and that can be dangerous in this weather,” Margaret said.
The Meringolo’s home was damaged during Sandy and they were forced to temporarily relocate.
“Everything about our lives that was so secure – we realized how vulnerable it really is,” John said. “The devastation here is immense. I don’t think anybody understands that there are still so many people that need help.”
The couple, who have three children, put their jobs on hold to lend a hand to those still suffering.
“We took care of our home and kids, now it’s time to help the community,” John added.