Frank J. Reali III memorial dinner is ‘Protecting One Young Heart at a Time’ on Staten Island
“The goal is to save parents the grief of losing a child,” Ms. Reali said. “We’ve tested over 400 kids and saved many children’s lives. “The sixth annual dinner in his memory, “Protecting One Young Heart at a Time,” was held on Monday, Oct. 20, at LiGreci’s Staaten, West Brighton.
A CNN medical study reported that more than 400,000 young people (including children) die each year in this country from SCD. Typically, there are no symptoms associated with the syndrome. The foundation’s mission is to screen youths for heart issues that might end in tragedy.
News of such tragedies have been in the news too often as of late.
A baseline heart testing for eighth-grade students or high school freshman is a protocol to follow. The gap is being filled free of charge by the Reali Foundation — and is overseen by technicians and cardiologists who donate their time and talent.
Within their small foundation testing has proved that more then 3 percent of children tested were found to have a correctable heart issue — either through surgery, medicine or lifestyle change.
Partnering with the Reali Foundation is Staten Island University Hospital, a division of North Shore LIJ, and Richmond University Hospital, has brought about a monumental strengthening of the cause.
As a small, grassroots organization, the difference has already been taking effect. Funds raised from events are earmarked for the purchase of state of the art equipment and to test children’s hearts free of charge.
The foundation is honoring a few notable selfless people who are committed to bettering the Staten Island community through health and wellness for children.
“Come have a great time in celebration of a life and a positive spin from a tragedy. The mission of the foundation is to stop a parent from having to grieve the loss of a child from sudden cardiac death,” says Fran Reali, Frank’s mom who is an Advance Woman of Achievement.
Fran adds that in the short period of existence, the foundation has done just that.
In addition to honorees, special guests include Bart Oates New York Giants Super Bowl Center and Andrea Wachholtz , owner of AIM Dance Studios who will be performing a special interpretation with an outstanding child performer/dancer Nicolette Arpaio, as well as another talented Staten Island songstress Hannah Maurice.
Those honred at the event were:
Donna Proske: Donna’s selection as Staten Island University Hospital’s first female executive director follows more than 30 years of service to the hospital, commencing with her employment as a staff registered nurse.
Staten Island Business Council: Staten Island Business Council is an exclusive business networking group whose membership consists of professionals and business owners who work and operate in various industries.
Dr. Daniel J. Messina, Ph.D: A lifelong resident of Staten Island, he serves as president and CE, of 481 bed Richmond University Medical Center, West Brighton, the hospital in which he was born.
Leticia Remauro: President & CEO of The Von Agency, a full service public relations firm with specialties in small business and artist promotion, crisis management and political campaigns.
Jerry Schauder: Owner of Touchtel Electric & Datacom, a full service electro-technology company serving New York City and the metropolitan area.
Anthony Campitiello and Vincent Campitiello: Proprietors of Alphonso’s Pastry Shoppe, Meier’s Corners and the sons of Diane and Alfonso Campitiello who have dedicated their careers to expanding a business their father created more than 40 years ago.
Angelina Reno: Her heart was saved on June 4, 2012. Angelina’s recent accomplishments: Plays travel softball with the Staten Island Saints 2009-present, and is a pitcher for the 2013 New York State Champion Mid-Island Little League Softball Team.
Jack Schron: Finally, after waiting almost four months, the Schron family got the news they had been hoping for: a donor heart had been located that would match the size and type doctors would need to perform Jake Schron’s transplant. On March 23, 2013 Jake underwent the surgery to replace his heart and in the early morning hours of March 24, 2013, Jake’s new heart began beating successfully.
For more information about “Protecting One Young Heart at a Time,” call 718-420-2331.
