Suffolk Executive Bellone and Brentwood Student Donovan Maldonado Kick Off Donovan’s Training for Suffolk County Marathon
Suffolk County, NY - October 5, 2018 - Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone today announced that Donovan Maldonado, a Brentwood High School student who suffered life-altering injuries after being struck by a car, has challenged himself to participate in the 2018 Catholic Health Services Fourth Annual Suffolk County Marathon, Half Marathon, 5K and Relay Race on October 28 as part of his recovery.
“Donovan Maldonado embodies the spirit of what the Suffolk County Marathon aspires to represent,” said Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone. “The strength, perseverance and hard work it has taken Donovan to get here, and to now undertake this new challenge of participating in the marathon, truly humbles and inspires me. This is what this marathon is about.”
Suffolk County Legislator Monica Martinez said: “Donovan Maldonado is an individual of extraordinary courage and strength. He has overcome incredible challenges in order to prove to himself and his supporters that, with enough endurance and dedication, he is capable of anything. Donovan perfectly embodies the strength and passion characteristic of Brentwood residents. We are all proud to share Donovan’s story as he continues to inspire Brentwood students to persevere through adversity and achieve their goals.”
Richard Loeschner, Brentwood Union Free School District Superintendents said: “This is a testament to how one persons internal strength and fortitude can overcome tremendous hurdles. Donovan's Parents, family and friends have also never wavered in their support and devotion of Donavan. Also, his parents love has been an inspiration to me.”
On January 12, 2016, Donovan Maldonado was struck by a car while walking home from school. The crash caused serious internal bleeding, traumatic brain injury, ruptured spleen, and broken bones, which have severely impacted his life. Since the crash, Donovan has undergone several medical procedures and will require a lifetime of rehabilitation.
This year, Donovan will be participating in the Suffolk County Marathon’s 5K race. In preparation for the race, Donovan will be using the Brentwood High School Track as his training ground. County Executive Bellone, Donovan, members of his family, and friends kicked off his training with a walk around the Brentwood High School track.
The Suffolk County Marathon will be held on Sunday, October 28, 2018 in Patchogue. All four races begin and end in vibrant downtown Patchogue. The Suffolk County Marathon was first launched in 2015, with the main objective of providing additional support to the more than 90,000 veterans who reside in Suffolk County. Each year, the Marathon raises money to benefit veterans and to date, the Suffolk County Marathon has raised more than $400,000 for local veterans’ services with more than 9,000 runners participating. Last year’s recipients included, Paws of War, Long Island Cares, America’s VetDogs, St. Joseph’s College, Make it Count, United Veterans Beacon House, General Needs, and the Association of Mental Health and Wellness.
For more information on the Marathon, Half Marathon, 5K and Relay Race or to register please visit www.suffolkmarathon.com.