Dr Henry Tong's Memorial Fund

There was so much left to do and you left too soon. On December 24th 2020, my father Henry Tong had been admitted into the New York Presbyterian Hospital of Queens with COVID-19. I still remember the text that we received - "Pulse oxim show 66%". My heart dropped as I read the message. I called my father and heard the gasps of air in between each answer. With tears in my eyes, I saw him in the hospital with an oxygen mask on. I held my phone gripped in my hand just so that my brother Westin could FaceTime my father since they only allowed one person to visit him. They had to move him to the ICU because his condition rapidly deteroirated and that was the last time I saw him in person being able to wave to me and my brother. 

Over the next few days, we received daily updates from the hospital. On the 4th day, we were told he had to be intubated. My brother and I Facetimed him and told him to "STAY STRONG DAD, we love you very much" right before he was intubated. Little did we know, that it was the last time my father was able to respond to us. My father had suffered multiple complications due to COVID - kidney failure, multiple pulmonary emboli and strokes in brain due to blood clots, pneumothorax, and sepsis. When we were finally able to visit him in the hospital, he was in his comatose state. Though he was intubated and sedated, we always told him we loved him and that many people were thinking of him. After 61 days of fighting an uphill battle against COVID, my father had passed away on February 23rd 2021. 

Dr. Henry Tong had worked for New York State Court Officers Association for 30 plus years. He was very dedicated to his job and he worked throughout the pandemic until the day he was hospitalized. He loved being a dentist and died doing what he loved. My father always treated his patients with love and care. He loved to cook and trying out various Youtube recipes. He also enjoyed dragon boat racing every year with his team Columbia Lion Dragons. Our father was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone in need and always knew how to cheer you up. His Dad jokes never failed to make us laugh. I'd say "I'm hungry" and he would always respond with "Hi, I'm Henry." 

This memorial fund will help fund funeral expenses and Westin's educational expenses. If you can donate any amount to help our family, it will be greatly appreciated. Westin and I would like to thank you all in advance for the love and support during this difficult time. Henry was an amazing father and friend to many. Your spirit will always live on dad, we love you and miss you dearly everyday.