The Brooklyn community is in mourning following the untimely death of Dr. Stephen Zawie, a beloved veterinarian and owner of Bensonhurst Veterinary Care. Dr. Zawie, a dedicated father and husband, passed away on July 13, 2024, leaving behind his wife Amanda and their two young sons, Jackson and Austin. As the news of his death spreads, friends, family, and clients are coming together to support his grieving family through a GoFundMe campaign.
Who Was Dr. Stephen Zawie?
Dr. Stephen Zawie was a Long Island native, born and raised in Stony Brook, New York. From a young age, he exhibited a deep passion for animals and veterinary medicine, often spending time at his father’s veterinary clinic. This early exposure to the field ignited his lifelong commitment to animal care.
Dr. Zawie pursued his undergraduate education at The University of Maryland, College Park, where he majored in Animal Science. He furthered his veterinary education at Ross University in St. Kitts and completed his degree at Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge. During his time in Baton Rouge, he experienced the devastation of Hurricane Katrina firsthand and played a vital role in rescuing and rehabilitating animals affected by the storm. One of these animals, a severely injured and dehydrated dog named Pickles, became a cherished member of Dr. Zawie’s family after making a full recovery.
Professional Journey and Impact
After completing his veterinary education, Dr. Zawie was accepted into a prestigious and demanding internship program at the Animal Medical Center in Manhattan. This opportunity allowed him to hone his medical and surgical skills, setting the foundation for his distinguished career. He spent several years working as an associate veterinarian at progressive veterinary hospitals in Manhattan and Brooklyn before deciding to open his own practice.
Bensonhurst Veterinary Care, located at 7424 20th Avenue in Bensonhurst, Brooklyn, became a beacon of hope and healing for countless pet owners in the community. Dr. Zawie was known for his compassionate care, dedication to his patients, and unwavering commitment to veterinary medicine. His practice not only provided top-notch medical care but also fostered a sense of community and trust among pet owners.
Personal Life and Legacy
Dr. Zawie’s personal life was marked by his deep love for his family. He was a devoted husband to Amanda, an Island Park native, and a loving father to their two sons, Jackson (6 years old) and Austin (5 years old). His family was his greatest joy, and he balanced his demanding career with his role as a father and husband seamlessly. His untimely death has left a profound void in their lives and in the hearts of all who knew him.
Community Support and GoFundMe Campaign
In the wake of Dr. Zawie’s passing, the community has rallied to support his family during this difficult time. A GoFundMe campaign has been established by a family friend to help raise funds for his funeral and to provide financial support for Amanda and their children. The campaign description reads:
“It is with a heavy heart that we share the unexpected and tragic loss of Stephen Zawie on July 13, 2024. Among the many important roles he’s filled, Stephen was a husband, father, son, brother, uncle, and respected veterinarian. As their world has shockingly and drastically changed, Stephen’s beautiful wife, Amanda, and their two amazing little boys, Jackson (6 years) & Austin (5 years), require our help as they mourn the tremendous loss of Stephen and try to navigate their lives.”
The outpouring of support has been overwhelming, with donations and heartfelt messages flooding in from friends, family, clients, and even strangers who were touched by Dr. Zawie’s story. The funds raised through the GoFundMe campaign will help alleviate the financial burden on Amanda and allow her to focus on supporting their children during this challenging time.
Reflections from the Community
The impact of Dr. Zawie’s work and his presence in the community is evident in the numerous tributes and memories shared by those who knew him. Clients of Bensonhurst Veterinary Care have expressed their gratitude for his compassionate care and dedication to their pets’ well-being.
One client, Maria Rodriguez, shared her experience: “Dr. Zawie was more than just our veterinarian; he was a friend and a trusted advisor. He cared for our pets as if they were his own and always went above and beyond to ensure their health and happiness. His kindness and expertise will be sorely missed.”
Another client, James Turner, echoed these sentiments: “Dr. Zawie had a unique ability to connect with both animals and their owners. He had a calming presence that reassured us during the most stressful times. His loss is a tremendous blow to the community.”
Professional Accomplishments and Dedication
Dr. Zawie’s professional accomplishments extended beyond his clinical work. He was actively involved in veterinary associations and continuously sought to expand his knowledge and skills. His colleagues admired his dedication to the field and his willingness to mentor younger veterinarians.
Dr. Lisa Campbell, a fellow veterinarian and colleague, shared her thoughts: “Stephen was a remarkable veterinarian and an even better person. He was always willing to share his knowledge and support his peers. His passion for veterinary medicine was evident in everything he did. He leaves behind a legacy of excellence and compassion.”
The Road Ahead for Amanda and the Boys
As Amanda and her sons navigate the difficult road ahead, they are bolstered by the support of their community and the memories of the wonderful times they shared with Stephen. The funds raised through the GoFundMe campaign will help ensure that Amanda can provide stability and support for Jackson and Austin as they adjust to life without their father.
Amanda has expressed her deep gratitude for the outpouring of love and support. In a heartfelt message, she said: “Stephen was the love of my life, and his sudden passing has left us devastated. The kindness and generosity we have received from friends, family, and even strangers have been a source of comfort during this incredibly difficult time. Thank you to everyone who has donated, shared a kind word, or offered their support. It means more to us than words can express.”
Funeral Arrangements and Obituary
The family is in the process of finalizing funeral arrangements for Dr. Zawie. Details will be shared with the community once they are available. The obituary will reflect the life and legacy of a man who touched the lives of many through his work and his kindness.
Conclusion
The death of Dr. Stephen Zawie is a profound loss for his family, friends, and the broader community. His dedication to veterinary medicine, his compassion for animals and their owners, and his love for his family are the hallmarks of a life well-lived. As the community mourns his passing, they also celebrate the positive impact he had on so many lives.
The support shown through the GoFundMe campaign and the shared memories of those who knew him are a testament to the lasting legacy of Dr. Zawie. His work and his spirit will continue to inspire and guide those who had the privilege of knowing him. As Amanda, Jackson, and Austin move forward, they do so with the knowledge that they are surrounded by a community that cares deeply for them and honors the memory of Dr. Stephen Zawie.
