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MINEOLA, N.Y. (September 14, 2026) – The American Red Cross on Long Island is proud to announce the honorees for its 2026 Long Island Heroes Celebration, recognizing six extraordinary individuals whose courage, compassion and service have made a lasting impact in their communities. The breakfast celebration will take place on Thursday, October 22, 2026, at Heritage Club at Bethpage in Farmingdale, N.Y., from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.

"Every one of this year's honorees has a remarkable story to tell," said Jose Dominguez, CEO of the American Red Cross on Long Island. "From acts of lifesaving bravery and extraordinary resilience to decades of service and advocacy, each honoree has made a meaningful difference in the lives of others. We are proud to celebrate their inspiring contributions to our community."

2026 Honorees Include:

Humanitarian Award: Hon. Harvey Weisenberg
Community: Long Beach
A lifelong Long Beach resident, Harvey Weisenberg has spent decades serving others as a lifeguard, police officer, teacher and New York State Assemblyman. A dedicated advocate for individuals with disabilities, he has devoted his life to improving opportunities and quality of life for countless families. His compassion, leadership and unwavering commitment to service continue to strengthen communities across Long Island and beyond.

Community Impact Legacy Hero: Tom Von Essen
Community: Rockville Centre
For more than four decades, Tom Von Essen has dedicated his life to public service and leadership. As New York City's Fire Commissioner during September 11, he helped lead the FDNY through one of the most challenging moments in our nation's history and has remained a passionate advocate for first responder health, safety and preparedness. His enduring commitment to serving others has left a lasting impact on communities throughout New York.

First Responder Hero: Officer Freddy Cerpa
Community: Elmont
Officer Freddy Cerpa demonstrated extraordinary courage when he helped save the lives of two young children experiencing life-threatening choking emergencies within a matter of weeks. Acting quickly and decisively both while off duty in his neighborhood and later while on duty in the Bronx, he restored both children's breathing before additional medical help arrived. His actions exemplify selfless service and an unwavering commitment to protecting others.

Military Hero: Brandi M. Carney, LCSW
Community: Huntington
For more than 25 years, Brandi M. Carney, LCSW has dedicated her career to supporting veterans, military families, first responders and individuals impacted by trauma. Through her leadership in behavioral health, service with the American Red Cross Disaster Mental Health Team and advocacy for military-connected communities, she has provided healing, hope and support to countless individuals throughout Long Island.

Help Can't Wait Hero: Susanne Deegan
Community: Sea Cliff
When Susanne Deegan learned that a local restaurant manager, David Geliashvili, needed a kidney transplant, she immediately volunteered to be tested as a donor. Ultimately found to be a match, Susanne's selfless gift gave David a second chance at life. Her generosity highlights the extraordinary impact compassion, kindness and human connection can have on another person's life.

Youth Hero: Finn Schiavone
Community: Bay Shore
After a devastating wrestling injury left him unable to walk, talk, read or write, Finn Schiavone embarked on an extraordinary journey of recovery. Through determination, rehabilitation and resilience, he regained his independence and returned to an active life. Inspired by the legacy of Lt. Michael P. Murphy, Finn has transformed adversity into purpose and continues to inspire others through his perseverance and strength.

Celebration Supporters
Co-chaired by Ryan Attard and James Quent, the Long Island Heroes Celebration is the signature fundraising event for the American Red Cross on Long Island.

The Heroes Celebration Committee includes Brian L. Bank, Elaine Biller, Su Chen, Ali Jabbour, Andrea Kantor, Greg Lavine, Alexis Morledge, Amar Nanugonda, Magda Paris, Djenny Passe, Stacey Sweet and Debbie Tinnirello.

The Red Cross depends on the generous support of the American public to fulfill its vital mission. Proceeds raised through the event help the Red Cross prepare for, respond to and assist individuals and families affected by disasters, support military members and veterans, provide lifesaving blood and blood products, and deliver emergency assistance throughout Long Island and across the country.

We are grateful to our generous sponsors and community partners whose support helps make this event possible.

Sponsors (as of September 1, 2026)
Hero Sponsor: National Grid
Visionary Sponsors: Elecnor USA, Haugland Group, Posillico Inc., PSEG Long Island
Match Sponsors: Champion Specialty Services Provider, East Neck Nursing & Rehabilitation Center, El Sol Contracting & Construction Corp., Long Beach Nursing & Rehabilitation Center, Rivkin Radler
Community Sponsors: Lockton Companies, Sherwin-Williams Protective & Marine Coatings, United Rentals
Breakfast Champions: AARP Long Island, Bethay Consultants, Inc., Mercury Paint, NEAP (National EAP, Inc.)
Media Sponsors: Connoisseur Media, Richner Communications/LIHerald

For more information, to purchase a ticket, or to donate to the Red Cross on Long Island, please visit: www.redcross.org/liheroes