This Is My New Jersey

As the Coronavirus pandemic continues to spread and take the lives of people we love, I want to share with you the story of someone special to me – Dr. Michael G. Giuliano. On Saturday he lost his life to COVID-19.

Dr. G. was my doctor since I was 20 years old (trust me, that means it has been a long time). When my husband (then boyfriend) needed a doctor, I told him to go see Dr. G. They quickly became buddies. It was never an appointment – it was always a visit. He was available to his patients, no matter the time or the day. He treated every patient like family.

As word spread of this profound loss, patients shared stories of how he touched their family. Yesterday, a procession of police, fire, and residents passed by his office in a procession. Without fail, his wife MaryLu was at the office, continuing to help his patients, just as I’m sure he would expect. I am happy she was able to see it first-hand. I can’t imagine her feeling of loss, but I hope it gives her comfort knowing we grieve with her as a community.

At some point we’ll have to find a new family doctor. And while I’m sure the new doctor will be fine, but there will never be another Dr. G. God definitely broke the mold with him.

Rest in peace. I hope you now how many of us will miss you.