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The lead singers of a popular Long Island party band, who suffered devastating injuries in a car wreck this month, are receiving huge support from the community.
Bryan Zamzam and his wife Chelsea of East Northport both face multiple surgeries and long roads to recovery in wake of a head-on crash July 14 in West Islip. Both were hospitalized with serious injuries after their Jeep Grand Cherokee collided with an Audi A8 that was heading the wrong way on the Sunrise Highway Service Road about 9:35 p.m.
The Zamzams — parents of three small children, aged 6, 4 and 1 — perform in venues across Long Island with the Hot Date Band. A GoFundMe effort for the family has raised nearly $153,000 to help offset their medical bills and lost income.
“It’s difficult to express how undeserving Bryan and Chelsea are of this tragedy. They have been integral members of the Long Island community, bringing joy and celebrating with local couples on their wedding days,” wrote Steven Sineno, who organized the fundraiser on behalf of the Zamzams.
“Managing medical bills and maintaining their household, now with their single income compromised and three children to care for, will be incredibly challenging,” he added.
Bryan Zamzam has a broken leg and arm, and needed stitches to close wounds across his body, Sineo said. He will require additional surgeries and has medal rods supporting his injuries. In the months ahead, his injuries will prevent him from driving and working, Sineo said.
Chelsea Zamzam was hospitalized for brain bruising, a spinal issue likely requiring surgery, a broken hand, and a punctured intestine, according to the GoFundMe page for the couple.
Sineo noted that the Zamzams’ insurance has denied coverage for Bryan Zamzam’s subacute rehab, which costs $30,000 per month and needs to be paid upfront.
“Their recovery is reliant on our donations, as this experience will undoubtedly change their lives forever,” Sineo wrote. “Bryan and Chelsea are exceptional parents, and their strength and love for their children are truly inspiring. They are involved in every aspect of their children’s lives, from running them to karate and dance lessons, to special days enjoying ice cream and watching sunsets.”