Paul and Laura Deckelman HELP!

                 ROCKAWAY EMERGENCY ON BOARD  Our longtime Rockaway Ferry advocate, photojournalist and one of Rockaway’s finest residents has a family emergency on her hands. Laura Deckelman’s husband Paul received devastating news less than a week from initial diagnosis.  His condition is terminal.  SHOCK and DISBELIEF does not adequately describe the situation, but DESPERATION does. Laura depends on her husband Paul as the wage-earner.  Following a passion as an artist is rewarding in so many ways, but not financially for most.   Paul has not been able to work, so finances are now completely depleted.  Paul has a life insurance policy in place for long term needs for his family, but IMMEDIATE NEEDS TO BRIDGE THIS HORRIBLE TIME IS DESPERATELY NEEDED.  LAURA AND PAUL ARE CURRENTLY FINANCIALLY DESTITUTE. Laura and Paul worked tirelessly to make sure Rockaway gets the ferry back.  She was the recipient of a very special award by the Metropolitan Waterfront Alliance for her advocacy for our waterfronts, our communities and the important additional transportation link to get to and from Rockaway.  Additionally, Laura was honored by the mayor of New York City, inviting to christening the Rockaway Seastreak during it’s maiden voyage.   Rockaway is her life, Paul is her love. We need your help.  Whatever you can give will be appreciated.  Additionally, please consider being Laura and Paul’s angels by actively and continually circulate this notice far and wide. Finally, we ask for prayers of support for Paul and Laura, as well as their children Michael, David and Shifra.  We <3 you Paul and Laura.  We will never forget YOUR tireless efforts on behalf of tens of thousands of residents of the Rockaways and  hundreds of visitors BEYOND! Coordinated by Elisa Bachrow Hinken, Lew Simon, Christine Stengel Puma, Rochelle Ginis and so many others who are grateful and thankful for Paul's contributions to the our communities.  <3

ABOUT THE FUNDRAISERS:    I am a nurse by profession, a business owner by trade for the last 30 years in home health care, community health care services, paraprofessional employment and placements.  I have a passion for helping people when called upon in my community.  I live in Inwood Long Island, born in Rockaway Beach, NY  Married, we have three children and three grandchildren. 

A committee of friends, agencies and organizations are bound together to assist Laura Deckelman financially as a BRIDGE until life insurance proceeds are dispersed.  Immediate needs:
-mortgage
-utilities
-car expenses
-food
-needs met regarding two special needs adult children
-COBRA coverage since husband's employer held the policy.  Will research options too, but need coverage until transition is complete

COMMITTEE OVERSIGHT:
One person is responsible for direct oversight of financial activities and confirm reporting activities.  All data shared with entire committee.  Understood that Laura may withdraw funds immediately upon availability.  All income from this fundraiser is not subject to any expenses incurred by the volunteer committee.  The only exception is the GOFUNDME policies agreed to upon signing up.