The Hauppauge Soccer League is immensely proud to have Lisa Tursellino as one of its dedicated board members. Her tireless efforts for our community, particularly in organizing and supporting events, have left an indelible mark. However, Lisa's commitment extends far beyond the soccer field. On November 5th, 2023, Lisa, alongside her son Jake, will embark on a deeply personal and profoundly meaningful mission—running in the prestigious New York City Marathon. Their participation holds a special significance, as they will be running in honor of their beloved husband and father, Steven Tursellino.
A Remarkable Family Legacy:
Steven Tursellino was more than just a name; he was a beloved figure in our community. A 20-year veteran of the Port Authority Police Department, Steven's commitment to service was unparalleled. In the wake of the devastating 9/11 attacks, he tirelessly worked at Ground Zero, spending weeks searching for survivors, driven by a profound sense of duty.
Lisa fondly recalls Steven as not just a great husband but also a fantastic dad, husband, and son. He was deeply involved in our community, coaching youth baseball for HYO Baseball and positively impacting the lives of countless children.
The Ultimate Sacrifice:
The Tursellino family's life took a tragic turn when, in 2010, a routine health screening revealed cancer. Steven's battle began, but it was a battle he would ultimately lose. In 2013, at just 45 years old, Steven passed away, leaving behind a loving wife, Lisa, and their four children.
The loss was overwhelming, compounded by the challenges of raising young children while managing the household and work. Lisa's resilience during those challenging times is a testament to her strength.
Tunnel to Towers Foundation:
In the midst of their grief, the Tursellino family received support from the Tunnel to Towers Foundation. The organization, known for its incredible work, established a program to pay off mortgages for families of first responders who succumbed to 9/11-related illnesses and left behind young children.
Lisa and Jake were touched by this gesture and felt a deep desire to express their gratitude. They saw the New York City Marathon as the perfect opportunity to give back, all while raising funds for the foundation.
A Family Affair:
Lisa and Jake, along with their oldest daughter Ryan, have already participated in the annual 5K and are now gearing up for the iconic NYC Marathon. As official Tunnel to Towers student-athletes, they aim to represent the foundation and bring awareness to its mission.
Their journey echoes the spirit of Steven Tursellino—a sense of duty, dedication, and a commitment to making a difference in the lives of others. Lisa and Jake are living testaments to his legacy, and they continue to honor his memory with their actions.
A Legacy of Service:
Steven Tursellino served our community and country with honor and dedication. The Tunnel to Towers Foundation's mission to support the families of first responders resonated deeply with the Tursellino family, and their decision to run the NYC Marathon is a beautiful way to pay tribute to Steven's legacy.
Hauppauge Soccer League Stands Proudly with Lisa Tursellino: Rallying the Entire Community to Support the Tursellino Family
As the Hauppauge Soccer League, we stand behind Lisa and Jake Tursellino in their noble endeavor. We encourage our community to support their cause and follow their journey. Together, we can make a difference and carry forward the legacy of a remarkable individual who touched so many lives.
For more information on Lisa and Jake's journey and how to support their cause, please visit their fundraising page here.
The Hauppauge Soccer League salutes Lisa and Jake Tursellino for their unwavering dedication to making a difference, both on and off the field. We wish them the very best as they take on the streets and bridges of New York City in honor of their husband and father, Steven Tursellino.
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