I am starting this fundraiser for my 18-year-old son after our lives changed in an instant. On his way to school, he hit a pothole and safely pulled over near Sunrise Highway and Route 112 to change a tire. While he was on the side of the road, he was struck by a vehicle. The impact caused severe polytrauma and left him in the surgical intensive care unit. He suffered multiple devastating injuries, including fractures to his maxilla, occipital bone, right hand, ribs 7-12 on both sides, hip, sacrum, tibia, ankle, and foot, along with lacerated lungs, kidneys, and spleen. Complications also led to hematomas and pooling blood in his right lung, requiring a chest drain. He has already endured 4 surgeries, with 4 more still pending if no further complications arise. He is also facing possible permanent nerve damage to his right leg. We know his recovery will be long, but we still do not know how long it will take before he can be mobile again.

As his mom, I never imagined I would be on the other side of a fundraiser for my perfectly healthy child’s livelihood. The funds raised will help with transportation to medical appointments and rehabilitation; modifications to his living space to accommodate mobility limitations; caregivers and assistance with daily activities when needed; physical and occupational rehabilitation; psychological therapy and emotional support; medical equipment and supplies; recovery-related living expenses; medical and rehabilitation expenses not covered by insurance; and any unexpected costs that arise throughout this long recovery. Our Long Islanders came together when my son was lying hurt on the road, and now to see strangers coming together to be part of the aftermath and his recovery is beyond words. We are profoundly grateful for the support, prayers, and compassion shown to our family, and for the camaraderie that will bond all of us for a lifetime. If you are able to help in any way, whether by donating or sharing this fundraiser, thank you from the bottom of my heart.