HOMETOWN HAPPENINGS: An Extraordinary Act of Kindness

By Supervisor George Hoehmann

With breaking news alerts blaring throughout each day about disasters or the latest in human misdeeds, it is understandable that one’s worldview can be painted in darkening, pessimistic hues. What goes largely unreported is the good that people do. I’m glad to share with you an instance of an extraordinary act of kindness in the hopes that your faith in the inherent goodness of people, especially our youth, is refreshed.

A few weeks ago, I got to witness a great act of kindness from a local eight year old boy here in Clarkstown. Like many other second graders this past spring, Cian Murrihy who lives in West Nyack, made his first holy communion and celebrated with family and friends. Naturally Cian received generous gifts for this momentous occasion that added up to $7,000, quiet a substantial amount of money.

At around the same time, Cian had learned about a local volunteer firefighter Will McCue who was suffering from complications from the flu. Cian told me himself how bad he felt for Will and was thinking about how he could help. He decided to donate all his communion money to Will McCue. Will had several limbs amputated and medical expenses were piling up; in addition, his home needs to be renovated to accommodate his needs.

To recognize Cian, the Clarkstown Police Department and the New City Fire Department coordinated a special day for him and his family. First, Chief McCullagh and I welcomed Cian, his sister, and parents to the Clarkstown Police headquarters as he arrived in a New City Fire Department truck. Chief McCullagh then made him an honorary officer for the day; he received a tour of the department, met the K-9’s and explored various police vehicles and equipment. He was interviewed by our local media, FIOS 1 and News12. Then he headed over to the New City Fire house to go up in the ladder truck and meet Will’s fellow firefighters.

Cian hopes to meet Will one day in person. Cian explained how Will was his hero.

In today’s unsettled world, I could not have been more pleased to see this happen in our little corner of the world. Clarkstown is truly a great place to live, work, and raise a family. We are a wonderful community who cares about each other and Cian’s heart is a prime example of that. Cian, you and your family, make us all proud. Thank you for your kindness and generosity.

  Cian Murrihy, New City Fire Department, west nyack, Will McCue