Gregory Fink, a former NYPD officer and Long Island resident, is now grappling with a serious medical crisis in Cartagena, Colombia. Known for his dedication to youth sports both locally and internationally, Fink’s sudden health emergency has taken him far from home.
“The initial discovery was a blood clot,” his girlfriend, Laura Burgos, shared with The Post.
Soon after, doctors diagnosed Fink with a severe aneurysm in his right vertebral artery, a major vessel responsible for delivering blood to the brain and spine, as he was engaging in sports charity work abroad.
Fink, who played for the NYPD soccer team, frequently visits countries like Colombia, Costa Rica, and the Bahamas, where he provides sports equipment and opportunities to communities in need.
In addition, he leads the South Fork United Foundation, a youth soccer program based in the Hamptons.
“This has been his passion since childhood,” Burgos explained. “He consistently strives to help the community, finds joy in being around kids, and is a truly remarkable man.”
Fink underwent successful “miracle” surgery in late March, but many complications must be addressed.
Now, many people whose lives Fink touched are paying it forward by helping cover his extensive medical costs.
“I don’t know 100 percent if the insurance is going to cover everything,” Burgos said.
The new goal is getting him back stateside as soon and as safely as possible.
A GoFundMe for the coach has already raised more than $27,000 toward its $50,000 goal, with the majority of contributors being Long Island parents whose kids grew close to Fink.
“The way they are supporting us, it’s unbelievable,” said Burgos, who flew to Colombia. “I am so grateful.”
