Longtime Basketball Coach Needs Help In Face Of Medical Challenge

HAMPTON BAYS, NY — The community is coming together to help a longtime Hampton Bays basketball coach during his time of need.

A GoFundMe page, "Help Patrick McGunnigle With Medical Expenses," was created by William Weeks of Hampton Bays.

McGunnigle, Weeks said, "is having a hard time affording his medical care," after having a brain hemorrhage in December. Since that time, Weeks said, McGunnigle has needed round-the-clock care.

"Though he has insurance, the insurance does not cover the level of care he needs and has left his family with thousands of dollars in weekly bills," he said.

McGunnigle has made a deep impact on the community through his years of dedication, Weeks said.

"Patrick was a teacher and basketball coach in Catholic schools for 15 years and in Hampton Bays for 28 years. He has positively impacted the lives of countless students and student-athletes in those many years. I hope that as a community, we will come together to help a fantastic teacher, coach, friend, father, and husband get through this tough time," he said.

He added: "With his needs, everything adds up quickly. Patrick and his family will greatly appreciate any amount of money and recommendations for home health care aides who may be able to help. All donations will go directly to Patrick and his family to support his medical care."

Pat's daughter Colleen McGunnigle thanked everyone who was helping during such a difficult time.

"Our biggest challenge has been finding enough home health aides," she said. "This is an exorbitant ongoing expense with no end in sight."

She explained how to help: "If you or someone you know would be willing to sign up as an aide with the specific home health agency his insurance covers, that would be an unbelievable help to us. If you can spare anywhere from 8 to 40 hours a week, please let us know."

Also, she said: "If my father has touched your life in any way, I'd love for you to send a letter, video or picture of your memories and stories, that I can share with him. This would make his day and put a smile on his face. Every little thing is such a struggle for him now. When he receives a message from someone who cares about him, he lights up and it's amazing."

Finally, she said, donations will help pay for his care. "We're so grateful for the people who have wanted to contribute. We thank you from the bottom of our hearts."

To donate, click here.

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