Help for Asian Assault Victim - Melvin Dizon
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On the morning of Monday, March 28th, our beloved brother, Melvin Dizon, was viciously attacked and robbed while buying breakfast on his way to work. The incident occurred at McDonald’s on 7th Ave and West 33rd St in midtown Manhattan. While Melvin was ordering at the kiosk, the attacker walked up behind him, demanded his wallet and cellphone, and proceeded to punch him in his face. The attack escalated quickly, with Melvin sustaining multiple blows to his head and body, eventually left bleeding and unconscious on the ground. None of the staff or customers who were present at the time came to his rescue, despite his repeated cries for help. Police and paramedics arrived shortly after the incident, rushing Melvin to a local hospital where he was listed in critical condition. The police are actively investigating the case and have a suspect in custody. Video of the attack and local media coverage can be found in the links below.
Melvin is a 53-year-old Filipino immigrant who has lived in the New York/New Jersey area for more than 30 years. He is a kind, quiet and gentle soul who has had a rough go of things lately. In 2019, he was laid off from his longtime employer due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Since then, Melvin has only been able to find part-time work and recently moved in with family to save money. Two weeks ago, things were looking up when he started a new full-time job as a clerical worker at a law firm. Then, without warning, he was senselessly attacked during his morning commute. Melvin does not currently have medical insurance or benefits and has exhausted his savings, leaving him unable to support himself through his recovery. Given his current condition, it's unclear when he will be able to return to work to start earning a salary again.
Melvin’s doctor said that aside from cuts and bruises on his face and head, he also sustained internal head injuries, including a traumatic brain injury, subdural and subarachnoid hemorrhages. He continues to experience severe headaches, dizziness and may require additional rehabilitation and/or physical therapy after hospitalization. Despite his assault, Melvin hasn't lost his love for New York City. We are praying that with time he will eventually make a full recovery.
Our family would greatly appreciate your prayers and any financial assistance you might be able to offer Melvin during this difficult time. We thank everyone for their kindness and generosity and hope that Melvin will be back on his feet again very soon.
With love and appreciation,
The Dizon Family
New York Daily News: https://www.nydailynews.com/new-york/nyc-crime/ny-mcdonalds-panhandler-customer-attack-video-20220329-6j4zvdrpwja47kl2ihclh743ye-story.html
Organizer and beneficiary
Chris and Rosa Dizon
Organizer
West Orange, NJ
Christian Dizon
Beneficiary