Lifeguards, Classmates Organize Benefit for Doris Quigley

As 17-year-old East Hampton Town lifeguard in the ocean surf last week, her co-workers, instructors, fellow swimmers and high school classmates have rallied to show their support.

A benefit beach BBQ will be held in Doris' honor at on Sept. 8 at 5:30 p.m. Admission is $20 and other donations are welcome, all which go through the East Hampton Lifeguard Association, according to chief lifeguard John Ryan Jr.

Doris, the youngest daughter of Deputy Town Supervisor Theresa Quigley and Tom Quigley, was just finishing her day as an ocean lifeguard at Atlantic Avenue Beach on Wednesday afternoon, when she took a dip in the water and hit a sandbar. She was airlifted to Stony Brook University Medical Center, where she underwent a three-hour surgery.

H and she continues to make good progress, though they said she faces many months of rehabilitation therapy. According to an email Ryan sent out on Tuesday, "Doris has been able to move her toes, foot, and leg on the right side on command. Today, she astonished the doctors and her family by moving he left knee-thigh."

Community members and beach-goers, many of whom don't know Doris, have asked what they can do to help, Ryan said.

"This is just so the community can say, 'We care and we're here and thinking about you'," he said.

Guests at the cookout will have the opportunity to step into a video booth and send their well-wishes with Doris in a personal manner with the help of . 50/50 raffle tickets will be sold, as well as a drawings for numerous prizes.

Within just a few short days of the accident, the food and drinks for the party have already been donated. The East Hampton Town Lifeguards, the East Hampton Volunteer Ocean Rescue Squad and the senior class will meet later this week to finalize plans.

If it rains on Sept. 8, the BBQ will be moved indoors. Ryan just submitted the paperwork to the for permission to use the high school cafeteria if the weather does not cooperate.

If you cannot make the event but wish to donate, checks can be made payable to Hampton Lifeguard Association/Quigley fund and forwarded to Mr. John Ryan at 7 Meadow Lane, East Hampton, NY 11937.