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Frank Cornacchiulo, who has Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and was on immunosuppressive treatment with Rituxan, contracted the virus over the summer, which triggered encephalitis — a severe brain inflammation — that has left him unable to eat, speak, or walk.
Cornacchiulo's sister-in-law, Tanya Kevorkian, described the rapid decline since Thursday, Aug. 8
“He was sick with flu-like symptoms," she said. "By Sunday night he was on life support."
And he hasn't left the hospital since.
Cornacchiulo spent two months performing tests, including repeated spinal taps, before identifying West Nile Virus as the cause. “It went into his brain, which impacted everything — his motor functions, speaking, eating," Kevorkian said. "He went from normal to a vegetable overnight."
As of Monday, Nov. 18, more than $7,800 had been raised on a campaign for Cornacchiulo's recovery.
A Knight of Columbus and CUNY adjunct professor at Lehman College, Cornacchiulo was highly active in his community before the illness. He also volunteered countless hours teaching STEM and robotics.
Cornacchiulo is in rehabilitation aimed at regaining basic functions at the Kessler Institute, however, his condition remains uncertain as his brain heals.
“This isn’t a six-week recovery," his sister-in-law said. "It’s unknown if or when he’ll regain functionality."
Cornacchiulo's wife, Lydia Cornacchiulo, is bracing for the challenges ahead.
“The house has to be modified just to get him in and out. He’ll need help with everything — from using the bathroom to transportation,” Kevorkian explained.
The family warns others, especially those who are immunocompromised, about the dangers of West Nile Virus.
“A mosquito bite can ruin your life,” Kevorkian said. “If you’re on immunosuppressants, you’re highly vulnerable. Everyone needs to protect themselves.”
The family's fundraiser to help cover medical bills, home modifications, and ongoing therapy costs. “We need the community’s support,” they shared. You can click here to donate.
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