Fundraiser held to help soccer star’s dad

One by one, they came over to speak with Joe Faller, share stories and offer help. One month after watching his daughter Alyssa net the winning goal in Queens HS of Teaching’s PSAL Class B soccer championship, their first city title, Faller was the center of attention.
The city Sanitation Department’s football team held a fundraiser at Dupey’s Field in Whitestone Saturday afternoon to help the Faller family through this difficult time. His sanitation house had raised $5,000 by themselves before the event.
Faller was diagnosed with terminal brain cancer in May after months of seizures. The Floral Park native and former sanitation worker is undergoing surgery this week at North Shore Hospital to remove excessive built-up fluid from his brain and then he will return to Durham, N.C. to continue experimental treatment at Duke University Medical Center.
Before the next step in the process, however, he enjoyed a day in the park with old friends. A live band was on hand, food was served, softball was played.
“I’m speechless,” he said. “Knowing in some way it’s going to funnel down and help my family, it feels great.”
Added his wife Carina: “It’s funny how people I haven’t seen in 20 years are coming out of nowhere to help out.”
Faller wasn’t sure what to expect before arriving at the park late Saturday afternoon. Alyssa joked there would be five people there - their family. But the popular yet humble 43-year-old was greeted by hundreds of friends and coworkers.
“He’s a standup guy,” said Paddy McCutchen, one of the event’s organizers. “We know he has problems. We’re trying to do the right thing. He’s a union brother and he’s a guy in trouble.”
When news spread of Faller’s condition, almost from the get-go, the family has received endless support from the community. His daughter’s soccer exploits brought it further into focus for those who had lost contact with him. In tough times, it sure has made the trying process easier.
“I didn’t think it would be as big of a turnout as any of it has been,” Alyssa said. “It’s surprising, but in a good way. Knowing wherever you go, people know the situation, and are willing to talk about it, makes it better.”
Faller’s family has set up a fund to aid their medical expenses and to save the family’s home from foreclosure. To donate to the Team Joe Fund, send a check to P.O. Box 3724, New Hyde Park, NY 11040.