The New York State Court Officers will face off against city corrections officers this Saturday at the Abe Stark Arena for a charity hockey game to benefit a young woman in need of a kidney transplant.
All proceeds from the game will help pay medical expenses for 26-year-old Alyssa Gaydosh, who is the sister-in-law of Lieutenant Paul Bajohr, one of the game’s organizers.
“Every year we find a different cause,” said Bajohr, who explained previous games have raised funds to cover medical costs for teammates or first responders who passed away. “But to have this year’s game benefit my family, the experience has really meant a lot.”
Bajohr said his sister-in-law has been living with him since she was diagnosed with end-stage kidney failure due to her life-long struggle with diabetes. Because she was recently dropped from her parent’s health insurance after turning 26, the kidney transplant is expected to cost $200,000.
Bojohr and his wife have already set up a GoFundMe page to raise funds for the procedure. But he’s hoping money raised at the hockey game will bring in an additional $10,000 – $15,000.
Bojohr, who is an academy instructor, said its been very meaningful to see his fellow court officers and the community rally to help his family.
“As the recruits go through training, I always tell them, if you ever land on your back, you have your brothers and sisters to always back you up. And to see it now, it is very humbling,” he said.
The game kicks off at 4pm at the Abe Stark Arena, located near West 21st Street and the boardwalk. Borough President Eric Adams will be present to drop the puck.
A suggested donation of $5 will get you a ticket. There is also a 50/50 raffle ($5 for one ticket and $20 for five tickets) and signed NHL memorabilia donated by the Islanders, Rangers, and Devils will be on sale. An after-party at Peggy O’Neals, with a $27 cover charge, will take place at 7pm.
