'Not Alone': Community Rallies To Help Beloved Teacher Battle Cancer

HAMPTON BAYS, NY — A young couple — two beloved East End educators — are facing the fiercest battle of their lives, and the community is opening their hearts to help.

A GoFundMe page, "Help Support Mike, Dyana & Baby Mia During Their Fight Against Brain Cancer," was created by Denise Lindsay-Sullivan, superintendent of the Remsenburg-Speonk Union Free School District, and Mary Kelly, superintendent of the Bridgehampton Union Free School District.

"Sometimes life throws unimaginable challenges at the most generous people," the page read. "Mike and Dyana DeRosa, two passionate and devoted educators, were just beginning an exciting new chapter in their lives with the arrival of their beautiful baby girl, Mia. But their joy was suddenly and devastatingly interrupted when Mike was diagnosed with glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer. In a moment that no young family ever expects to face, their world changed completely."

The page continued: "Mike, a beloved physical education teacher and athletic director at the Bridgehampton School District, and Dyana, a nurturing and adored first grade special educator at Remsenburg-Speonk Elementary School, have dedicated their lives to shaping and supporting young minds. Now they need our support."

Mike, the page said, recently underwent surgery to remove the tumor — a critical first step in a long, difficult journey, which includes intensive in-patient rehabilitation, ongoing treatments, and a long road to recovery. "While they remain strong in spirit and faith," the road ahead could come with financial burdens as the family focuses on healing and finding the right medical professionals, the page said.

"Mike and Dyana come from a foundation of love and giving — always there for others in times of need. Now it’s our opportunity to return that love. Let’s show them that they are not alone in this battle," Lindsay-Sullivan and Kelly said. "Whether you know Mike and Dyana personally, or you’re moved by their story, every donation — big or small — will make a meaningful difference. Help lift the weight of any financial stress so they can focus on what matters most: healing, family, and hope."

"If you’re speaking technically, Mike is my cousin. But if you grew up with us, he’s my brother. And he’s got the fight of his life ahead of him," said Lars Clemensen, superintendent of the Hampton Bays School District. "The Bridgehampton, Southampton, Hampton Bays, East Quogue and Remsenberg-Speonk communities are rallying together to see Mike to recovery and resolve. Whether it’s your treasure or your heart you’re sending to him, thank you."

A legion of supporters is rallying to raise up the DeRosas during their hour of need. "Please donate if you can, and share this page to spread the word," organizers said.

Donations are being collected by the Remsenburg-Speonk PTO, a non-profit organization.

"Together, we can help this beautiful young family face the unimaginable with strength, love, and support. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts."

To donate to the GoFundMe, click here.