The Suffolk County Police Benevolence Association (PBA) recently hosted a check presentation at their offices for wounded Officer Brendon Gallagher.
“It was truly heartwarming to witness the unity and support from law enforcement organizations across the nation, business owners, and the community as a whole during his time of need,” the PBA wrote.
Gallagher nearly died earlier this year after his vehicle was brutally struck by a reckless speeder he was in pursuit of off of Exit 55 of the Long Island Expressway in early January.
He was on life support at Stony Brook University, where top doctors performed rounds of extensive surgeries until his mass-attended discharge a few weeks later.
“Officer Gallagher was in dire straits—for the second time, he almost lost his life,” PBA President Lou Civello recalled in an interview with the South Shore Press.
“He still has a very long road ahead. I spent some time with him after [the check presentation]. He’s still recovering. He’s still debilitated. He has difficulty walking. He’s going to be laid up for quite some time.”
Shouting out the assistance of the LEO Weekend and Fund the First organizations, the PBA presented Gallagher a $153,680 check signifying the donations collected to help ease his strife.
Suffolk Federal Credit Union also kicked in an additional $1,000 on the day that was promptly—and deservedly—sent Gallagher’s way.
Civello said the $150,000, plus the additional safety net, is made up of many small donations; a testament to the "community coming together for Officer Gallagher in a tremendous outpour of support."
Adds Civello: “We are very grateful and thankful for everyone who has donated to this fundraiser, backed the Blue, and supported Officer Gallagher and his family."