Josh Brennan tries out a motorcycle on Saturday while members of the Putnam Chapter of the Fraternal Order of
Police and Dutchess County Sheriff Adrian “Butch” Anderson, second from right, wish him well. (Photo: Henry Brothers)
PATTERSON – Joe Petrucelli believes in his fellow man. The proprietor of Tri-County Sporting Goods on Route 22 in Patterson has helped to raise more than $95,000 for a 14-year-old boy in need of a heart transplant.
Joshua Brennan was diagnosed with Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome prior to birth and has undergone 10 major surgeries. Now, facing heart failure, with a pacemaker and only two valves operating properly, Joshua, needs a new heart.
Josh’s dad, Thomas Brennan, said he son was “not in crisis at the present time but he will eventually need the new heart.”
Despite his young age, in his spare time, Josh serves the emergency services community by volunteering with the Pawling Fire Department.
Tom Brennan is an active member of the local fire service and while too young to fight fires, Josh is an honorary member appointed last spring by Chief Everett White.
Josh washes trucks, helps to keep the firehouse spotless as well as handling the heat in the kitchen. He also assists at special events the volunteer fire service hosts throughout the year.
Tom Brennan said his son has “earned his respect of every member of the fire service due to his hard work.”
On Saturday, Petrucelli welcomed members of the Putnam Chapter of the Fraternal Order of Police to his business. The motorcycle unit of the Stephen Driscoll Chapter presented a check for $1,200 to the Brennan family to assist with their spiraling medical bills.
Petrucelli thanked the FOP for its generosity. He also requested that “all of New York’s bravest purchase an heirloom gun manufactured in America by Henry Rifles. All of the proceeds will be directed into a fund for Josh and his family.”
The company located in New Jersey and Wisconsin designed 54 custom Henry Lever Action Octagon rifles to help raise funds.
Those desiring to make a donation may contact Petrucelli at 845-878-6084.
