Hello my name is Elissa, I am Michael DiPenta’s stepmom. On August 5, 2026 our lives changed in an instant. Our son Michael was involved in a horrific truck accident on White Plains Rd. The cab of the sanitation truck was crushed leaving Michael pinned and trapped inside. The FDNY arrived and had to extricate him and he was rushed to Jacobi Medical Center.

Upon arrival the doctors quickly assessed that Michael would need Trauma 1 Level medical attention at Bellevue Hospital in New York City, in the hopes of saving his hand. At this point his broken ankle and broken foot were stabilized. Time was of the essence and a team of Orthopedic and Vascular surgeons began the grueling 12 hour surgery.

Thankfully, the surgeons, and I quote, “we are not giving up on him.” and they didn’t!

He had severed his arteries, tendons and blood vessels to his forearm, which prevented any blood flow to his hand.

Michael remains in ICU awaiting additional surgeries for his hand, as well as a broken foot and ankle.

His girlfriend has not left his side since this all occurred!

Michael is 28 years old. We pray that one day our son will be able to resume his career and return to his sanitation brothers.

That being said, his coworkers and many members of the DSNY have contacted us and urged us to setup a Gofundme so they can donate. No one knows what the future holds for Michael, but having financial security would lessen the burdens Mike will be faced with.

The Department of Sanitation has been overwhelmingly helpful to us since Day 1. They have helped us navigate what seemed impossible and unbearable. They truly are New York’s Strongest!!

No donation is too small. Any amount or even sharing this post is greatly appreciated.

We thank you for taking the time to read this post. Our hearts are full and appreciative for every phone call, text and prayer.

With much gratitude,

The DiPenta Family