If there's one universal truth in life, it's that it can be unpredictable. Everyone experiences unexpected events that throw us off. While some surprises may only affect our bank accounts, such as home expenses, others can cause physical harm, such as car accidents that result in long-term pain and discomfort. Many Americans suffer from chronic neck and back pain - according to research, half of Americans over 18 develop musculoskeletal injuries that last longer than a year. These injuries often cause a range of mobility issues that make everyday tasks seem hard to do. Unfortunately, many people with chronic pain turn to addictive medications and invasive surgeries for relief, which tends to lead to further complications.
However, if you are experiencing chronic pain or mobility issues, there's good news: Safer and more effective options are available to you. Physical therapy in Avon, NJ is one of the best solutions for eradicating pain, maximizing mobility, improving range of motion, building muscle strength, and helping you regain control of your body. At NJ Sports Spine & Wellness, our physical therapists and trainers offer customized programs designed for your body and address your pain symptoms. That way, you have the best possible chance of reclaiming a normal, active life, without surgery or harmful pills.
With the incorporation of therapeutic exercises and manual therapy as well as newer techniques and modalities like AlterG® Anti-Gravity Treadmills and DRX9000 Spinal DecompressionMachines, our physical therapy services can help address conditions such as:
Physical therapy can provide numerous benefits, such as pain reduction, enhanced joint and body movement, improved range of motion, proper alignment, and more. While the main goal of physical therapy is to restore function and facilitate a return to regular activities, these outcomes usually result from a broader rehabilitation process, wherein many patients learn a brand-new way of moving.
At NJ Sports Spine & Wellness, our physical therapists work closely with patients to understand their unique goals, preferences, and abilities. Based on their findings, they create a customized treatment plan that caters to the patient's specific needs.
Here are just a few specific examples of why physical therapy is crucial when recovering from an injury:
Whether you're searching for long-term pain relief or need to improve your strength and balance as you age, physical therapy from NJSSW can help.
Now that you understand why physical therapy is crucial for recovery and wellness, let's take a closer look at some of the most effective treatments at our physical therapy clinic in New Jersey.
Are you sick of living day-to-day with long-lasting neck or back pain? Have you searched high and low for a safe and effective alternative to surgery? The DRX9000 may be the answer you're looking for.
Beloved by high-level athletes and even celebrities, this advanced medical device employs non-surgical spinal decompression therapy to treat painful conditions such as:
The DRX9000 is a device that has been approved by the FDA for treating herniated discs through spinal decompression therapy. This therapy works by applying equal amounts of pressure on your vertebral columns, which stretches your spine and creates a gap between spinal discs. This gap allows for better nutrient flow through your spine, which can help heal injuries gradually with regular treatment sessions. The DRX9000 also utilizes servo motors that rely on nested closed-loop feedback to customize therapy to your unique needs. By using DRX9000, you can often speed up your recovery by addressing your spinal disc issues ASAP.
No Harmful Medications Needed (Do we really need this paragraph or could we just mention it int he beginning about how it is a non-pharmaceutical method)
Perhaps the most significant advantage of the DRX9000 is that it provides a non-pharmaceutical method for relieving pain. With the opioid epidemic affecting the entire nation, many patients are reluctant to take prescription painkillers. The DRX9000 offers a secure and non-addictive alternative for pain relief that does not require medication.
During the course of the treatment, the patient will lie down on a specially designed table that is connected to the machine. The table will then be gently stretched as the machine creates negative pressure within the affected disc. This process will be repeated over a series of sessions, typically ranging from 20 to 30 sessions, depending on the patient's specific condition.
The DRX9000 treatment is considered to be safe and effective for many patients. It is designed to be gentle on the body, and patients usually experience little to no discomfort during their sessions. The machine is also equipped with advanced safety features, including sensors that can detect any sudden movements and stop the machine if necessary.
The AlterG® Anti-Gravity Treadmill boasts NASA Differential Air Pressure (DAP) technology, which is a highly accurate air calibration system that leverages your actual body weight to achieve exceptional results in rehab and training. By utilizing a pressurized air chamber, the AlterG allows you to move freely and without pain, as it uniformly reduces gravitational load and body weight by up to 80% in precise 1% increments. This process helps foster improved muscle strength, balance, function, range of motion, and overall fitness.
AlterG®'s state-of-the-art treadmill provides an entire range of benefits, such as mimicking natural movement and rhythm without the contrived feel of hydrotherapy or harnesses attempting to imitate real-life strides and motions. Additionally, it's beneficial for speeding up recuperation after orthopedic injuries or surgeries by enabling early mobilization and retaining strength. Furthermore, it's excellent for sports recovery since athletes can utilize it to maintain their physical fitness.
Some of the numerous benefits of using the AlterG® Anti-Gravity Treadmill include:
The AlterG® Anti-Gravity Treadmill is a revolutionary piece of equipment that has transformed the field of physical therapy. With its list of unique features and superhero-worthy benefits, this anti-gravity treadmill is a game-changer that can help you achieve your fitness and recovery goals while also minimizing the risk of injury.
After reading the headline above, you might be asking yourself, "Are lasers really used for physical therapy in cityname, state?" The answer to your question would be a resounding "Yes!" This advanced type of laser therapy harnesses the power of light through photobiomodulation (PBM), which is revolutionizing how patients heal and deal with pain.
Photobiomodulation (PBM) is a medical process that utilizes targeted light to activate the body's natural healing mechanisms. By penetrating deep into the tissue, photons interact with mitochondria (the cellular powerhouses in your body) to increase energy production. This interaction triggers a biological cascade that leads to increased cellular metabolism. As a result, PBM can reduce pain, accelerate tissue repair, and enhance overall well-being.
Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) is a non-invasive and painless treatment that utilizes specific wavelengths of light to stimulate healing and reduce pain. It works by penetrating the skin and tissues to promote cellular activity and increase blood flow, which in turn helps to reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and accelerate the healing process.
LLLT has been shown to be effective for a variety of conditions, including musculoskeletal injuries, arthritis, neuropathy, and more. It is a safe and gentle treatment option that can aid in regaining function and mobility from injuries, accidents, surgeries, and other conditions. That makes it a viable and trustworthy addition to your personalized physical therapy plan from NJ Sports Spine & Wellness.
LLLT has shown promising results for challenging conditions that other treatments can't match. Some of the most common conditions treated include:
If you're slogging through life and suffering from one or more of the conditions above, you should know that there is hope for pain relief. Contact NJ Sports Spine & Wellness today to find out if low-level laser therapy is right for you.
Game Ready Ice Compression Therapy is an advanced treatment technique that combines the advantages of modern cryotherapy (ice therapy) with the proven benefits of compression therapy. This clinically proven, synergistic approach is widely used in sports medicine, physical therapy, orthopedics, and post-operative care to speed up recovery, alleviate pain and inflammation, and enhance rehabilitation.
Understanding the Powerful Benefits of Ice Compression Therapy
Game Ready Ice Compression Therapy is an advanced treatment technique that combines the advantages of modern cryotherapy (ice therapy) with the proven benefits of compression therapy. This clinically proven, synergistic approach is widely used in sports medicine, physical therapy, orthopedics, and post-operative care to speed up recovery, alleviate pain and inflammation, and enhance rehabilitation.
The "cold" component of ice compression therapy helps nullify nerve-ending sensitivity, which provides pain relief. The extra compression gives you even more pain relief by reducing swelling and pressure on limbs and other body parts.
By improving lymphatic flow and enhancing blood circulation, compression therapy can help reduce swelling and edema, thereby improving your recovery process and simultaneously reducing pain and discomfort.
The concurrent use of cryotherapy and compression can enhance the body's innate healing mechanisms by reducing inflammation, mitigating tissue damage, and stimulating tissue repair.
Game Ready's combination therapy has been shown to be effective in improving joint flexibility and range of motion by promoting tissue healing. This treatment can be a great option for those looking to alleviate discomfort and improve overall joint health.
Whether you're recovering from surgery or you're trying to manage chronic pain in your back or joints, ice compression therapy may be the advanced treatment you need. Contact NJSSW today to learn more about how this treatment can help you live an active life free of pain.
Game Ready Ice Compression Therapy is an advanced treatment technique that combines the advantages of modern cryotherapy (ice therapy) with the proven benefits of compression therapy. This clinically proven, synergistic approach is widely used in sports medicine, physical therapy, orthopedics, and post-operative care to speed up recovery, alleviate pain and inflammation, and enhance rehabilitation.
Game Ready Ice Compression Therapy is an advanced treatment technique that combines the advantages of modern cryotherapy (ice therapy) with the proven benefits of compression therapy. This clinically proven, synergistic approach is widely used in sports medicine, physical therapy, orthopedics, and post-operative care to speed up recovery, alleviate pain and inflammation, and enhance rehabilitation.
NormaTec's compression therapy devices have undergone continuous refinement and improvement since their inception. The adjustable settings of their system enable users to regulate the intensity, duration, and pattern of compression, thereby enabling our skilled providers to tailor treatment to suit the specific requirements and comfort levels of each patient.
In the realm of holistic wellness, cupping therapy is a venerable and time-honored practice that has proven to be an effective technique for managing pain and enhancing blood flow. At NJ Sports Spine & Wellness, we recognize the diverse benefits of cupping therapy, which we offer at both our Matawan and Marlboro, NJ locations.
This ancient technique creates suction on your skin using specialized cups that help promote blood flow, muscle relaxation, and pain relief.
At NJ Sports Spine & Wellness, we believe that incorporating holistic treatments into physical therapy can greatly benefit our patients. As part of our efforts to alleviate stress and manage chronic pain or conditions, we offer cupping therapy as one of those holistic treatments. This modality has been proven effective and offers numerous benefits for physical therapy, which include:
Cupping therapy can help release muscle tension and relieve back pain. The suction from the cups releases fascial restrictions, decreases muscle tightness, and relieves muscle knots, providing relief from pain caused by muscular tightness or strain.
Our skilled practitioners and physical therapists use modern cupping devices and techniques to create consistent suction on the skin, which stimulates blood flow and encourages oxygen-rich blood to flow into muscles and tissues. This improved circulation can reduce inflammation, remove toxins, and promote healing.
Cupping therapy can relieve back pain by improving circulation, reducing muscle tension, and increasing lymphatic drainage. It's a natural and non-invasive approach that can improve mobility and quality of life.
Cupping therapy uses a gentle suction and pulling sensation that helps ease back pain and reduces stress by creating a calming effect on the body and mind, promoting physical and mental healing.
At NJ Sports Spine & Wellness, we always prioritize your well-being and offer comprehensive care tailored to your needs. With customized physical therapy tailored to your specific needs, we provide a drug-free, non-invasive, and highly effective treatment path for pain relief and recovery. From tried-and-true techniques to cutting-edge treatments, we're New Jersey's top choice for innovative physical therapy.
Take the first step towards a pain-free, vibrant life by contacting our office today. It all starts by scheduling your initial consultation. With our highly-trained and licensed specialists by your side, you can embrace a brighter, pain-free future.
BELMAR, N.J. -- A broken drawbridge down the Jersey Shore is stranding boaters and costing businesses.Crews have been working under the Route 71 drawbridge over the Shark River that connects Belmar to Avon-by-the-Sea, but repairs could take months.Department of Transportation officials said the 92-year-old bridge couldn't open Friday to allow boats to travel underneath because of a ...
BELMAR, N.J. -- A broken drawbridge down the Jersey Shore is stranding boaters and costing businesses.
Crews have been working under the Route 71 drawbridge over the Shark River that connects Belmar to Avon-by-the-Sea, but repairs could take months.
Department of Transportation officials said the 92-year-old bridge couldn't open Friday to allow boats to travel underneath because of a mechanical malfunction.
"I was three and a half hours out in the ocean trying to find a place to go," said Alan Shinn, a fishing boat captain who was stranded.
Shinn's boat was docked down south and he's losing money.
"We lost the weekend because of not being able to come in. We are starting Sunday actually because the weather was so nice," said Shinn.
Thomas Palmisano, who owns a bait and tackle shop, said it's impacting his business too.
"We get a lot of customers, which are their customers on the boat. They come in here, they buy ice, they buy rods, reels, tackle, bait," said Thomas Palmisano.
DOT officials said the mechanical failure resulted in significant damage to the machinery of the north bridge leaf.
Crews were working to lift the budge up in an open position because DOT said it's legally obligated to allow marine traffic to pass.
"If vessels can't go through, it has a huge effect on commerce throughout this entire region," said Evan Sproviero, who owns Deep Water Landing, one of the oldest marinas in the state. "This is one of the more active inlets probably in New Jersey."
DOT said repairs on the bridge could take months and that it will remain closed to vehicles.
"This is a major thoroughfare. Summer's our time to really, to shine here. It's when we make all of our money. So it's really going to impede a lot of business" said Kevin Doyle, who manages a Jersey Mike's.
Transportation officials said crews cannot start making repairs until Tuesday because of high winds in the forecast this weekend.
DOT said it plans on replacing the bridge in 2028. The project could take more than three years.
Christine Sloan is an Emmy Award-winning reporter, who covers New Jersey for CBS 2 New York. Sloan re-joined the station in January 2023. She also worked at CBS 2 New York from 2004 to 2016.
Don’t be too quick to overlook this quaint beach town for its rowdier southern neighbor, Belmar (which we love too, don’t worry). With a beautiful boardwalk, charming inns, and several adorable local businesses, Avon-by-the-Sea is the perfect destination for a relaxing family trip or romantic weekend getaway. Keep reading for everything you need to know about a weekend getaway at Avon-by-the-Sea.Whe...
Don’t be too quick to overlook this quaint beach town for its rowdier southern neighbor, Belmar (which we love too, don’t worry). With a beautiful boardwalk, charming inns, and several adorable local businesses, Avon-by-the-Sea is the perfect destination for a relaxing family trip or romantic weekend getaway. Keep reading for everything you need to know about a weekend getaway at Avon-by-the-Sea.
Lodging — the most important aspect of any trip (unless it’s just a day trip, of course). Riddled with charming inns, Avon-by-the-Sea has no shortage of great places to spend a night (or week).
This restored historic house features an outdoor pool and Victorian-style rooms with ocean views. Guests enjoy a country breakfast daily and can reserve the mini in-house theater for a private viewing of their favorite movie complete with soda, candy, and popcorn.
A stay at this century-old English-style cottage includes a continental breakfast (with gluten-free options available} and an afternoon snack of lemonade, tea, and fresh-baked cookies on the wrap-around porch.
In addition to a hearty cooked-to-order breakfast, Avon Manor guests can pay an extra $8 for a picnic lunch. Golf lessons, bikes, pool access, and a “pillow menu” are available.
Beyond these inns, however, visitors can check out AirBnB for additional options in town, too, for something a little bit more personal.
Food — literally something that can make or break a great trip. Of course, whether you’re seeking a tasty brunch or a sweet cookie for dessert, Avon-by-the-Sea has it all.
See More: Foodie Fun: A Chef’s Guide to Asbury Park
This charming bistro just opened in January, but it’s already become a can’t-miss brunch spot. Even the simplest menu items have special touches: The bacon-egg-and-cheese comes on a fresh, flaky croissant, and the vanilla pancakes are smothered in blueberry sauce and matcha butter. Bring your own bottle of bubbly and they’ll provide a house-made sorbet for frozen mimosas. If you can’t stay for a full meal, check out the market for coffee, sweets, and fresh-cut flowers.
When you need a break from the sun, head to this beachfront restaurant (known as Av Pav to locals), which has a convenient, full-service snack bar facing a shaded section of the boardwalk. Breakfast sandwiches are available until 11:20AM, followed by typical grill fare like fries and hamburgers, plus frozen treats. The menu recently got some creative additions, including a refreshing — and seriously Instagrammable — purple açai soft serve. While you wait, peruse the adjacent shop for chairs, sunblock, toys, and other beach essentials.
Cult-favorite vegan and organic eatery Seed to Sprout was so overwhelmed by takeout orders that the owners decided to open a carry-out market right next door last winter. Swap the usual fried beach food for a cold-pressed juice, a tempeh salad, and some vegan peanut butter macaroons from the grab-and-go case.
Okay — this surf-themed restaurant is technically in Bradley Beach, but the delivery radius covers Avon beaches (just note which avenue you’re on and plan to meet the driver at the boardwalk). The best-seller is a particularly delicious chicken caesar wrap called the Hawaii Five-O, but the bulk of the menu is dedicated to more unique dishes with a blend of Southern California, Caribbean, and Pacific Rim flavors.
The innovative menu at this upscale little restaurant proves paleo food doesn’t have to be as boring as everyone says it is. Everything is gluten- and dairy-free but full of flavor. Case-in-point, the bison burger is cooked with duck fat, topped with avocado, sriracha, and a fried egg, and sandwiched between sweet potato hash brown “buns.” It’s so good, a caveman would eat it. Don’t skip dessert either, as the chocolate chip cookies will win over even the staunchest gluten enthusiasts.
Talk about snacking local: This extremely adorable sweet shop serves ice cream from Newark-based Nasto’s and fluffy, scratch-made cookies from Long Branch’s favorite Becca’s Cookie Bar. Try both in the form of an ice cream cookie sandwich, or go for something a little different. The shop’s specialty is a “nitrogen float — nitrogen-infused cold brew — from Asbury Park-based Nitro Beverage Co. topped with a scoop of ice cream and whipped cream.
Read More: 12 Beaches Accessible via Public Transit from Hoboken, Jersey City, + NYC
So now that we’ve covered the eats and the lodging, a trip to Avon-by-the-Sea would be incomplete without a few fun daytime activities + nights out.
Avon’s three-quarter-mile boardwalk underwent a $3 million restoration after Hurricane Sandy. With grey decking, towering lampposts, and sea foam blue benches, it’s easily one of the most well-maintained boardwalks on the Jersey Shore (and one of the best for dream-home window shopping). Keep walking north and you’ll hit Bradley Beach, Ocean Grove, and Asbury Park. When you’re ready to catch some rays and waves, buy a daily beach badge.
This Victorian mansion-turned restaurant/club is the heart of nightlife in Avon. In addition to themed menus like Surf and Turf Wednesdays and Lobster Palooza Thursdays, there’s live entertainment every Wednesday through Sunday. The lineup features Jersey music legends like former Bon Jovi guitarist Bobby Bandiera, Bruce Springsteen tribute band The E Street Shuffle, and beloved local bar band The Nerds.
It’s impossible to feel stressed when one enters this self-proclaimed “candy store for the soul.” The boutique smells like incense and essential oils, and colorful, glittering stones cover almost every surface. Owner Courtney is a Reiki master who specializes in crystal energy healing. She travels all over the world to find raw and polished tumbled stones, working with local jewelers to turn some of them into pendant necklaces. Pick up a keepsake from your trip or a unique gift for someone back home.
No need to deviate from your workout routine. This hot yoga studio is located right on Main Street, and the drop-in rate is just $20. Class styles vary from restorative to athletic power yoga. Beginners and experienced yogis are welcome. Check out the schedule and sign up for classes here.
Have you visited Avon-by-the-Sea? What did you enjoy the most? Let us know in the comments!
OpeningsPromenade, Avon-by-the-SeaAn exciting new restaurant has opened on Avon-by-the-Sea’s boardwalk. Promenade’s seafood-forward menu features breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner options. Enjoy the raw bar and sushi, as well as dishes like red snapper, grilled branzino and pan-seared scallops—all with a view of the ocean. Heartier dishes like braised short rib, pork chops and penne vodka are on the menu, too. There’s also a concession window for quick meals during beach days. Owners ...
An exciting new restaurant has opened on Avon-by-the-Sea’s boardwalk. Promenade’s seafood-forward menu features breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner options. Enjoy the raw bar and sushi, as well as dishes like red snapper, grilled branzino and pan-seared scallops—all with a view of the ocean. Heartier dishes like braised short rib, pork chops and penne vodka are on the menu, too. There’s also a concession window for quick meals during beach days. Owners Carmen and Liam Moloney also own and operate Amelia’s by the Sea in Spring Lake. 600 Ocean Avenue, Avon-by-the-Sea; 732-505-7770
The Good Dog Bar just opened its first location in New Jersey. The popular bar originated in Philadelphia and boasts “good food, good drinks and good times.” Stop in to sample the Good Dog Burger, which is filled with Roquefort cheese and topped with caramelized onions. Other menu options include empanadas, poke bowls and a short-rib grilled cheese. Vegan options are also available. This establishment features two dog-themed floors, two full-sized bars and a game room. Challenge yourself to spot all of the dog-themed artwork throughout the building. A dog-friendly patio will open in June. 3426 Atlantic Avenue, Atlantic City; 609-808-3038
[RELATED: What’s New at the Jersey Shore for Summer 2023]
This popular Vietnamese restaurant in Morristown has reopened after undergoing renovations for the majority of 2023. Saigon Subs is ready to welcome patrons back with their delicious bánh mì sandwiches, summer rolls and bubble teas. Don’t forget your side of peanut sauce! 98 Elm Street, Morristown; 973-267-9888
An Italian-style deli is opening a second location in Ramsey. The owners, chef Adam Rose and financial advisor Mike Sparacino, are longtime friends with a shared passion for food and service. Their menu offers a variety of classic and unique sandwiches, such as the Lil Gracie (made with roasted pork, broccoli rabe and melted provolone). Patrons can also create their perfect sandwich with Sparo’s build-your-own option. Salads and sides are available, too. 94 East Main Street, Ramsey; 973-509-0807
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More than 30 years of summers filled with food, family and memories have officially come to an end.Avon Pavilion, an iconic restaurant among locals on the boardwalk in Avon-By-The-Sea, announced in a Facebook post this week that this past summer was its last.To our cherished guests, friends and AvPav family, It is with a very heavy heart to announce that the Avon Pavilion...Posted by Avon Pavilion on ...
More than 30 years of summers filled with food, family and memories have officially come to an end.
Avon Pavilion, an iconic restaurant among locals on the boardwalk in Avon-By-The-Sea, announced in a Facebook post this week that this past summer was its last.
To our cherished guests, friends and AvPav family, It is with a very heavy heart to announce that the Avon Pavilion...
Posted by Avon Pavilion on Monday, September 26, 2022
The closing was the result of medical issues among members of upper management, according to owner Robert Fishman.
“Health always comes first,” he said. “People think that life is like a play, it’s four acts. You got the first act, the second act — well unfortunately life is just one.”
Avon Pavilion, which opened each year in May and closed in September, is known for its casual fine dining fare with stunning views of the ocean as well as its boardwalk windows, where guests could walk up and order some quick eats.
Since its opening in 1990, the restaurant has faced many challenges, such as a nor’easter two years after it opened that decimated the boardwalk and destroyed the building, Hurricane Sandy in 2012, and most recently, the coronavirus pandemic.
“It’s all about hard work, passion and dedication,” Fishman said. “Even through these trials and tribulations, our team always showed up.”
Shortly after the announcement went live, floods of comments came through expressing sadness, reminiscing about the good times, but most of all love, offering support and gratitude for the team.
“A huge part of the love that has been outpouring is that our restaurant has always been so family-oriented between not only the team but our guests too,” said owner Michelle Fishman, Robert’s wife. “We go to all their weddings and baptisms. They’ve been such a huge part of our lives.”
Although the owners are saddened by the loss, they will always carry this experience with them, they say.
Kenneth Samuels, the executive chef and a partner, says he’s going to take some time off and recharge.
“It’s like a double-edged sword. It’s bittersweet,” he said. “It’s going to be nice to be able to move on, reinvent and get a little bit of rest and relaxation.
“But I’m definitely going to miss seeing the team year after year and making all these memories.”
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AVON-BY-THE-SEA, N.J. (CBSNewYork) -- One of the things that makes COVID-19 so cruel is how it's separating families.Because they're in isolation, infected patients have to part ways with their family at the hospital door.CBS2's Jessica Layton has a personal story about someone she's close and how she is coping.Even consumed with worry, Alyssa Applebaum is one of the most positive people you'll ever meet.&qu...
AVON-BY-THE-SEA, N.J. (CBSNewYork) -- One of the things that makes COVID-19 so cruel is how it's separating families.
Because they're in isolation, infected patients have to part ways with their family at the hospital door.
CBS2's Jessica Layton has a personal story about someone she's close and how she is coping.
Even consumed with worry, Alyssa Applebaum is one of the most positive people you'll ever meet.
"I will never lose hope and I will keep praying and I know he's gonna do it," Applebaum said.
Layton has been friends with Applebaum since their days at Syracuse University. Last summer, they both celebrated her engagement to Kevin McNamara, surrounded by friends and family.
"The most wonderful man I've ever met in my life," Applebaum said.
Seven months later, McNamara isn't allowed to have any family at his side as he battles COVID-19 in the Intensive Care Unit of Jersey Shore Medical Center.
"I want to run through those hospital doors and just run through the ICU. I want to hold his hand. I want to just be there for him," Applebaum said.
MORE: Coronavirus Update: Hospitals Now Using Donated Plasma To Test For Help Against COVID-19
It was a rapid deterioration that started with a fever for the lawyer, who is in his 50s and had no underlying health issues. He even ran four miles a day. He was taken to the hospital by ambulance on March 28.
"Kevin called me Monday and said, 'My breathing is not great. I can't even get up to go to the bathroom at this point anymore.' And then about an hour later they called me that they had put him on the ventilator," Applebaum said.
CORONAVIRUS: NY Health Dept. | NY Call 1-(888)-364-3065 | NYC Health Dept. | NYC Call 311, Text COVID to 692692 | NJ COVID-19 Info Hub | NJ Call 1-(800)-222-1222 or 211, Text NJCOVID to 898211 | CT Health Dept. | CT Call 211 | Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Quarantined in their Jersey Shore home, Applebaum calls the hospital at least three times a day for updates. She said the hospital workers are wonderful, but they are so busy they can only call when something's wrong, so any time her phone does ring, "My heart drops to my toes," she said.
"I don't even know who these doctors are. I don't know who they are. I'm trusting someone over a phone. You pray and you have confidence in these doctors that they are doing everything possible for him," Applebaum added.
MORE: Coronavirus Update: Tri-State Area Hospitals Celebrate COVID-19 Survivors
Alyssa has found a way to turn that helpless feeling into a mission. She's asking anyyone who may have had coronavirus to donate their plasma.
"We just need one donor for Kevin, but we could help so many people out there. We want to help as many people as possible. We don't want people to be in this situation," Applebaum said.
MORE: Coronavirus Update: NYC COVID-19 Survivor Says Drug Chloroquine Helped Save His Life
When asked what she would say to McNamara if she could speak to him, Applebaum said, "Keep fighting. He's the strongest man I know."
She's strong, too, and she'll be fighting from home, until he comes home.