'Exceptional' Parents Of 3 Badly Hurt In Wrong-Way Crash On LI, Friends Rally

EAST NORTHPORT, NY — Two East Northport residents and the parents of three children were seriously injured in a wrong-way crash in West Islip on July 14.

Bryan Zamzam, 43, and Chelsea Zamzam, 32, were injured when their Jeep was hit by Jimmy Graham, 40, of Central Islip, who was driving a 2014 Audi A8 westbound on the eastbound side of the Sunrise Highway Service Road at Malts Avenue, Suffolk police said.

Bryan, who was driving, was brought to South Shore University Hospital in Bay Shore, while Chelsea, a passenger, was brought to another hospital, said Steven Sineno, a close friend of the couple, on a fundraising page. They are the parents of a 6-year-old boy, a 4-year-old girl and a 1-year-old boy.

Sineno set up a GoFundMe for the Zamzam family that has raised more than $153K.

Sineno said the family is unaware he set the GoFundMe up on their behalf. He said neither of them has drank alcohol for more than 10 years.

"Bryan and Chelsea were returning home Sunday night after finally finding time for a date night when the unthinkable happened," Sineno wrote on the fundraiser. "Exiting Sunrise Highway eastbound, another car traveling the wrong way on the service road caused a head-on collision that was unavoidable."

Both sustained "severe and life-altering injuries" that will require many surgeries, Sineno said.

Bryan underwent surgery for his broken leg — fibula and ankle, with exposed bone — and his broken right arm, which is now fully cast, according to Sineno. He also suffered stitches and bruises across his body. Once the swelling subsides, he will require additional surgeries and currently has rods supporting his injuries, his friend said.

"His injuries will prevent him from driving and working, significantly impacting their household income," Sineno said. "Following his hospital release, he faces a long rehabilitation process."

Chelsea suffered brain bruising, an L5 spine issue likely requiring surgery, a broken hand, and a punctured intestine, Sineno said.

Both Bryan and Chelsea are lead singers in a well-known Long Island party band and will miss the remainder of their summer gigs, "crucial for their livelihood," Sineno said.

"Their love for music and performing together not only sustains them but also brings immense happiness to their audiences, spreading joy through their music at weddings, summer festivals, street fairs, and local events for many years," Sineno wrote. "It's difficult to express how undeserving Bryan and Chelsea are of this tragedy. They have been integral members of the Long Island community, bringing joy and celebrating with local couples on their wedding days. They are exemplary Long Islanders and role models for all of us."

Sineno said managing medical bills and maintaining their household, now with their single income compromised and three children still to care for, will be "incredibly challenging" for the Zamzams.

Bryan's insurance denied coverage for subacute rehab, which costs $30K per month and is needed upfront, Sineno said. Chelsea's medical needs are still unclear, he said.

"Their recovery is reliant on our donations, as this experience will undoubtedly change their lives forever," Sineno said. "Bryan and Chelsea are exceptional parents, and their strength and love for their children are truly inspiring. They are involved in every aspect of their children’s lives, from running them to karate and dance lessons, to special days enjoying ice cream and watching sunsets."

Sineno said he has known Bryan since they were 18.

"I have witnessed him build a wonderful family and begin what seems to be a successful business," he said. "Please consider supporting this family during this difficult time with any donation you can offer. We need more people like Bryan and Chelsea in the world, and it's heartbreaking to see them facing such hardships. Everyone is working to assist them in any way possible and praying that they will be singing and dancing together soon. Bryan's inability to drive and work, and Chelsea's uncertain recovery, bring tears to my eyes when I think about how they will manage daily tasks and care for their children. Let's keep them in our prayers and extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who can help this family in any way. Thank you all for your generosity and support."