(Rochester, N.Y.) - Rochester, N.Y. - Rochester Police Officer Anthony DiPonzio, seriously wounded in the line of duty last month, was honored Thursday at two events.
Thursday evening, Mayor Robert Duffy, Rochester City Council members, local business owners, and the Rochester Police Department gathered for a dinner, auction, and raffle at One restaurant in downtown Rochester.
DiPonzio's family thanked the crowd for its generosity and kindness. His mother, Joanne DiPonzio, said she's grateful for all the support. DiPonzio is in rehab and spends his time doing physical therapy and occupational therapy.
"He's doing very well, he's making great strides every day. Obviously, he has a long way to go, but he's doing very well and they're doing a great job with him," she said.
Duffy, former Rochester Chief of Police, said he's visited the Unity Health Trauma Center several times and is amazed at the young officer's progress.
“Seeing him at the hospital, each step, every single day, just makes me believe he's a testament to perseverance, strength, courage, I think he has a great family behind him and a great community behind him,” he said.
Earlier in the day, DiPonzio was also honored at a benefit luncheon in Gates, organized by the Italian American Sports Club.
"When people see them, we hope for prayers for a speedy recovery--and any donations are going into a fund for him--for whatever he needs in his long recovery time," said retired Lt. Sharon Rivaldo.
