A massive wave of support is growing for Tony Gestone, a young man hospitalized and fighting for his life after a catastrophic car accident last week.
Friends have mobilized a fundraising effort that has reached across and beyond Long Island, raising nearly $75,000 from hundreds of donors to help cover mounting medical expenses and Gestone’s difficult road to recovery.
Battling the odds
Gestone sustained life-altering injuries in the Thursday car wreck, including severe brain damage, spinal cord trauma and two collapsed lungs, according to a GoFundMe page established by a close friend on behalf of the man’s mother, Angel.
Gestone has already endured two intensive major surgeries — one focused on his brain and another for reconstructive purposes — in his fight to live, the fundraising page reports.
Medical professionals have been clear about his narrow chances of survival and the looming possibility of permanent paralysis, wrote Antonina Galasso on the GoFundMe page.
But the Nassau County family still clings to hope, describing Gestone as a kind soul with great determination who has already overcome significant obstacles in the days following the crash.
Outpouring of support
Tony father, Tony, who lives in Minnesota, posted a heartfelt message over the weekend regarding his son’s condition.
“Please say a prayer for my oldest son Tony,” the dad wrote. “He’s the best kid anyone can ask for and I love him so much!!”
Response to the fundraising effort has seen a staggering. As of Tuesday afternoon, the page has raised nearly $75,000 raised through 740 donations.
The GoFundMe describes Gestone as a person who is always the first to show up for someone in need, the first to check in, and the one who consistently lifted others up with his humor and kindness.
A long road ahead
Gestone’s mother has not left her son’s side since the accident, Galasso wrote. The funds raised are will help offset the expenses of Gestone’s medical care and specialized rehabilitation, as well as supporting his mother as she navigates the anticipated long and difficult journey.
Top: Tony Gestone with his mother, Angel (courtesy of GoFundMe) and Gestone as a child with his mom (inset, Facebook).
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