Gloria Gaynor's tribute to LI survivor

The glare of the lights were a bit much, and it was past her bedtime, but 5-year-old Marisa Carney couldn't help herself.

She swayed her hips to the disco beat.

All eyes at the NYCB Theatre at Westbury on Friday night were on Marisa as singer Gloria Gaynor threw the spotlight on the Bayport girl.

"I want to introduce you to the youngest little survivor in the crowd tonight," Gaynor said before inviting Marisa and her parents, Bill and Danielle, onstage.

As Marisa stood by, wearing a red polka-dot dress, Gaynor dedicated her rendition of "I Will Survive" to her.

Gaynor, active in several charitable organizations, read Newsday's story last Sunday and said she wanted to "do something to make her a star for a moment."

Less than a year ago, Marisa was diagnosed with an incurable brain disorder that causes rapid obesity and severe breathing problems. She loves to dance, and her parents try to keep her active despite her reliance on a portable ventilator. There have been only 75 cases of the disorder, ROHHAD, recorded worldwide.

The Carney family and friends have formed a nonprofit, ROHHAD Fight Inc., to raise awareness and money for research. Visit rohhadfight.org or call 516-459-6960.