Dr. Lorna Breen, who oversaw the ER at NewYork-Presbyterian Allen Hospital even after contracting COVID-19 herself, died by suicide. Her sister and brother-in-law, Jennifer and Corey Feist, spoke with TODAY. She said the hospital “was like Armageddon,” Jennifer says, but “she would not give up.” She adds, “She had COVID, and I believe it altered her brain” and “she couldn’t help enough people, and the combination was untenable.” The doctor’s surviving family tells the sad story.
Dr. Lorna Breen was a dedicated and compassionate emergency room physician who tragically lost her battle with mental health after contracting COVID-19. As the emergency department’s medical director at NewYork-Presbyterian Allen Hospital, Dr. Breen worked tirelessly to care for patients during the peak of the pandemic in New York City.
Despite contracting the virus herself and experiencing its debilitating effects, Dr. Breen continued to oversee the ER and provide care to those in need. Her selflessness and commitment to her patients were truly awe-inspiring. Still, the toll of the pandemic and the relentless demand for medical care took a devastating toll on her mental health.
On April 26, 2020, Dr. Breen died by suicide in Charlottesville, Virginia, where she had been staying with family after recovering from COVID-19. Her tragic death sent shockwaves through the medical community and shed light on the mental health struggles faced by frontline healthcare workers during the pandemic.
Dr. Breen’s colleagues described her as a brilliant physician, a natural leader, and a caring mentor who always put the needs of her patients first. She was well-respected and loved by those who knew her, and her loss was deeply felt by all who had the privilege of working with her.
In the wake of Dr. Breen’s death, there has been a renewed focus on the mental health challenges facing healthcare workers on the frontlines of the pandemic. The stress, trauma, and burnout experienced by these professionals can have serious consequences for their emotional well-being and overall health.
We must prioritize mental health support and resources for healthcare workers who are risking their lives every day to care for others. The stigma surrounding mental health must be shattered, and healthcare workers should feel comfortable seeking help and speaking openly about their struggles.
Dr. Lorna Breen’s legacy will live on in the hearts of those she touched and those she cared for. Her tragic death serves as a stark reminder of the importance of prioritizing mental health and well-being, especially during times of crisis. May her memory be a light in the darkness, guiding us towards a future where healthcare workers are supported, valued, and protected.
