When Patty Strauss’ son Greg suffered a traumatic injury last month — he broke his back cliff-jumping, but lost his right foot below the knee — all of Westport rushed to help.
We should. In over 20 years as town clerk, Patty has helped nearly everyone here.
Folks in Town Hall were especially affected. She’s just one official among many, but her work is important to every department. Her warmth and generosity has impacted every office.
Everyone loves Patty.
On Friday, nearly everyone in Town Hall wore Virginia Tech colors: maroon and burnt orange. Greg graduated from there just 4 months ago, and was working his dream job — crewing on a Caribbean yacht — when he was injured.
Showing the Virginia Tech colors for Greg Strauss.
They added messages of encouragement and inspiration. Those are small gestures, but they boosted Greg’s spirits — and of course Patty and her husband Ed’s too.
#GregStrong — started by Greg’s cousin — has caught on. Patty’s assistant Colleen Tarpey ordered stickers that will be sold soon.
Many Town Hall employees and Westporters have contributed to a GoFundMe campaign, for Greg’s mounting medical expenses. We’re all giving back to Patty, in whatever way we can.
Even non-employees sent best wishes.
1st Selectman Jim Marpe — wearing Virginia Tech orange — joined the chorus of encouragement.
