Listen to this articleThe home of a Commack family that is grappling with health and financial challenges now has a new roof and other repairs – just in time for the holidays.
That effort is thanks to a group of local contractors and roofing material manufacturers who donated their time and materials to the Ceglio family. Gina Farese, president and CEO of West Babylon-based Marcor Construction, led the collaboration, which included Owens Corning, Beacon Building Supply, MGM Construction Services and Long Island Carting.
“This project represents the community coming together to support a family facing extraordinary challenges,” Farese said in a news release about the project.
The project comes at a critical time for the Ceglio family. Cindy Ceglio is battling breast cancer for the second time and is slated for major surgery soon. Her son, Stephen, faces multiple complex medical conditions including autism, cerebral palsy, epilepsy and a rare gene mutation. Stephen, who underwent major surgery a year ago. Cindy, who typically provides 24-hour care for her son, will be unable to do so during her recovery and treatment. Peter Ceglio, the boy’s father, will be taking a leave from work to care for both Cindy and Stephen.
Valued at approximately $25,000, the home-repair project addressed crucial restorations, including roofing and gutter repairs, which are essential to protecting the family’s home from potential weather-related damage.
“When a mother is battling cancer and a child is managing complex medical conditions, every bit of support matters,” Farese said.
“We are doing more than just repairing a roof, we are providing hope, stability and a sense of security during an incredibly difficult time,” she added. “Our team believes in taking care of one another and lifting some of the weight from the Ceglio family’s shoulders, showing them that they are not alone in their journey.”
“It is amazing to see the outpouring support of the community who have reached out to help us after these recent events,” Cindy Ceglio said in the news release.
“I have been Stephen’s caretaker for my whole life, and it is what gets me through the day. Not being able to take care of him will be a challenge as I start my treatments, however, I know we have support from my wonderful husband, Peter, Gina and so many other supporters from our community,” she added.
“It is comforting to know there are people like Gina in the business community who are genuine and kind enough to assist people, like my family, in times of struggle,” Peter Ceglio said in the news release.
“In this time of uncertainty with financial constraints, Cindy’s treatments and the care of Stephen, we are thankful for Gina and the community for stepping in and providing much needed economic assistance for our family, home and making our lives easier,” he added.
Donations also came courtesy of the West Islip Breast Cancer Coalition. Farese set up a GoFundMe to support the Ceglio family.
