More than $6,000 raised in support of David Gerges

More than 300 people came out on Jan. 14 to attend a benefit at the Five Towns Community Center for David Gerges — one of the two victims of a New Year’s Day hit-and-run incident in Cedarhurst — to raise money for Gerges’ medical expenses.

Victoria Behar helped organize the benefit and said a little more than $6,000 was raised from the benefit. Behar said food was donated from local restaurants such as Mother Kelly’s in Cedarhurst and that people collectively brought in various dishes. There was a live band, DJ and raffles at the end of the night which Tom Jordan, the other victim of the hit-and-run who suffered a broken leg, assisted with.

Jessica Gerges, David’s sister, was at the benefit and said it was great that so many people came out to support her brother. “It’s great to know there are so many people who love my brother other than my family,” she said. “And to know that the community supports us.”

Gerges’ friends also visit the hospital a lot, some almost on a daily basis, Jessica added. “They’re love for my brother is tremendous,” she said.

As for how her family is getting through this tough time, she said her family has gotten over the “hump” of whether or not her brother will make it and that they are now focusing on what will happen to him next.

“My mom and dad are still in shock but we still have him here with us so our prayers have been answered,” Jessica said. “It will take time now.”

Gerges suffered a broken pelvis, when he and Jordan were walking east along the road on West Broadway at 3 a.m. and were struck from behind by a vehicle that fled the scene and headed east.

Currently, in South Nassau Hospital, Jessica said her brother can speak a little bit and can breath on his own, but that he will need a substantial amount of rehabilitation.

No arrests have bee made, but the police urge anyone with information about the incident to contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-244-8477.