Support Mario's Journey to Recovery and Independence

Team fundraiser

Diana Voto and Margaret Asaro are organizing this fundraiser.

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Help Mario Rebuild His Life After a Devastating Accident

Our brother Mario Asaro, a lifelong Queens resident, was enjoying a day at Jones Beach on August 1, 2024, when his life changed forever. A rip current tossed him off his boogie board causing his head to hit the sea bottom. He suddenly found himself unable to move, facedown, and struggling for his last breath.

In a miraculous moment, a bystander noticed Mario in distress, turned him over just in time, and called for help. Mario was airlifted to Nassau University Medical Center, where he underwent emergency spinal surgery that night.

Today, Mario is recovering at Emerge Nursing and Rehabilitation Center after spending six weeks at Rusk Rehabilitation NYU Hospital in Manhattan. His determination is inspiring, but the road ahead is long and uncertain. The cost of skilled nursing care has depleted his funds, and our goal is to bring him back home, where he can continue his recovery and rebuild his life with the tools and resources he needs to regain independence.

Mario’s Story

Before the accident, Mario was a vibrant, active member of his community. For 33 years, he dedicated his life to teaching art to young people in New York City public schools touching the lives of generations of students. As a proud member of the Executive Board of the NYC Artist Teachers Association for the United Federation of Teachers, Mario was more than an educator—he was a true champion of arts education and a mentor to art educators across New York.

Mario's dedication to his community knew no bounds. He captained his neighborhood softball league, organized an annual bocce tournament, and coached both little league baseball and boys' and girls' soccer teams. He also provided daily care for his elderly parents, who lived next door and depended on him. His life was a testament to service, joy, and unwavering devotion to family and community.

A devoted father, Mario takes immense pride in his two children: Kevin, a junior at Purdue University, and Sophia, a freshman at St. Francis Prep High School.

Now, Mario’s journey is not just about recovery—it’s about rebuilding a life centered on the people and passions that define him. Each day at rehab is a testament to his resilience and spirit, but the emotional and financial toll is immense.

The Road Ahead

To give Mario the best chance at rebuilding his life, we need to ensure he has access to the best equipment and services available. Many of the services go beyond Mario's financial resources and what insurance will cover.

A renovated, wheelchair-accessible home, where he can gather with friends and family. (est cost $200,000)
Advanced home rehabilitation equipment to maximize his recovery and adapt to his new life as a paraplegic. (est cost $25,000)
Essential mobility aids, such as a custom wheelchair operated by voice and wrist controls, along with specialized lifts for transfers and bathing. (est cost $20,000)
A wheelchair-accessible vehicle to help him reengage with his community and passions. (est cost $58,000)
Electronic technology adapted to voice controls, allowing him to navigate daily tasks and stay connected. (est cost $5000)
Ongoing medical care tailored to his injury, ensuring his long-term health and well-being. (over $100,000 not covered by private insurance and growing)
Rehabilitative physical and occupational therapy beyond what insurance will cover and needed to maintain gains. (ongoing expenses)

The cost of these necessities is staggering. As a family, we’re doing everything we can, but we can’t do it alone. Your support can help Mario rebuild his life and regain independence.

How You Can Help

We’ve set a fundraising goal of $250,000 to help Mario transition to this new chapter of his life. Every contribution, no matter the size, brings us closer to giving Mario the tools and care he needs to thrive.

Please donate and share Mario’s story. Together, we can spread awareness and gather the support needed to turn this tragedy into a story of hope and resilience.

Our Gratitude

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for taking the time to read Mario’s story. Your generosity and kindness mean the world to us.

In the event we exceed our goal, additional funds will go toward helping others facing similar life-altering injuries and supporting organizations dedicated to spinal injury research and care.

With love and hope,

Margaret, Joe, and Diana