Courtesy Mario’s DonationPage
Mario, a beloved Queens art teacher, was left paralyzed after a rip current caused a life-threatening accident at Jones Beach in August.
By MOHAMED FARGHALY
mfarghaly@queensledger.com
Mario, a longtime resident of Queens and a beloved public school art teacher, faces an uncertain future after a tragic accident left him paralyzed. On August 1, 2024, while enjoying a day at Jones Beach, a rip current threw him from his boogie board, causing him to strike his head on the ocean floor. The impact left him unable to move and struggling for his life until a bystander came to his aid, turning him over and calling for emergency help.
Mario, 56, was airlifted to Nassau University Medical Center, where he underwent urgent spinal surgery. After spending six weeks in intensive rehabilitation at NYU’s Rusk Rehabilitation in Manhattan, he is now recovering at Emerge Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. Despite his progress, his journey remains fraught with both physical and financial challenges.
A donation campaign has been launched to support Mario’s recovery, with a goal of raising $250,000 to help cover medical expenses, necessary equipment, and modifications to his home.
Before the accident, Mario was a vibrant figure in his community, dedicating 33 years to teaching art in New York City public schools. He was a passionate advocate for arts education and served as a member of the Executive Board of the NYC Artist Teachers Association for the United Federation of Teachers. Mario was also a dedicated coach and organizer in his neighborhood, overseeing local youth sports leagues and caring for his elderly parents.
His family and close supporters describe Mario as a pillar of his community, always giving his time and energy to others. Now, as he faces a long and difficult recovery, his family and friends are hoping that the public can come together to help him rebuild his life.
Courtesy Mario’s Donation Page
A campaign has been launched to raise $250,000 to cover his medical expenses, home modifications, and ongoing care as he navigates a challenging road to recovery.
The financial burden of Mario’s care is steep. According to campaign organizers, insurance does not cover all of the costs related to his ongoing medical needs and home modifications. Items such as a wheelchair-accessible vehicle, adaptive home equipment, and specialized therapy are essential to Mario’s ability to regain independence. The total cost of these needs is estimated at over $400,000.
“The cost of these necessities is staggering. As a family, we’re doing everything we can, but we can’t do it alone,” his family wrote. “Your support can help Mario rebuild his life and regain independence.”
The financial campaign outlines a breakdown of the costs involved, including $200,000 for a wheelchair-accessible home renovation, $58,000 for a modified vehicle, and $25,000 for advanced rehabilitation equipment. Ongoing medical care, which is expected to exceed $100,000, is also a significant financial concern.
Donations are being placed into a supplemental needs trust to help Mario transition to life as a paraplegic. Any funds raised beyond the goal will be used to assist others affected by similar injuries or to support spinal injury research.
Mario’s story has resonated with many who are touched by his decades of service to the community and his commitment to family.
For more information or to donate, visit Mario’s donation page at tinyurl.com/mariosupport or scan the QR code.
“From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for taking the time to read Mario’s story,” his family wrote. “Your generosity and kindness mean the world to us.”
