(above) School Superintendent Dr. Patricia Camp congratulates Sophomore Andrew DiGiovanni on his inspirational journey along with RHS Principal John Farinella, Band Director Miguel Bolivar, Strings Director Sergei Panov, and his family members.
Rahway High School Makes $1,700 Donation in Name of Student
Submitted by Rob Kinch
The right sneakers, the latest electronic devices, the ‘cool’ friends, good hair. Acceptance and fitting in, that’s what it’s all about. Being different? Not always a welcomed option. Middle school, high school…not easy terrain to navigate, especially when one’s path is hindered by an unforeseen roadblock. Self-acceptance, a strong self-concept, and emotional strength are fragile values to master at any age. For a teenager, it’s a Herculean task. Rahway High School sophomore Andrew DiGiovanni has confronted his obstacle head on, has risen above it, and has worked feverishly to push it out of the way for others.
Diagnosed with hemophilia at the age of 9 months, Andrew has fought valiantly to maintain a ‘normal’ life despite the frequent setbacks caused by this life-altering disease. Now a spokesperson for the medication Idelvion by CSL Behring, an FDA approved drug infused intravenously, Andrew dedicates much of his time and efforts in hopes of making a positive impact on the lives of others who face a similar compromise to their health. Idelvion provides factor IX, the missing factor that Andrew’s blood needs to clot, so he is protected from bleeding if he is injured, needs surgery, or is placed in life-threatening events.
To support Andrew’s mission, amid winter’s ice, the fire of a community united burned brightly in the name of one of her children on March 8 with the debut of Rahway High School’s premiere Fire and Ice Ball. Organized and hosted by the RHS French Club, this unique event was created to raise funds to donate to the Hemophilia Association of NJ in Andrew’s name. Thanks to the gourmet cuisine of Chef Joseph at Rahway’s Luciano’s Restaurant, which was enjoyed with music provided by the RHS orchestra students of Band Director Miguel Bolivar and the Strings musicians of teacher Sergei Panov, and graced with the luxe decorations provided by Art Teacher Katherine Turon, the elegant evening of dining and dancing succeeded in raising $1,700 for donation to the Association.
Reflecting on the significance of this unique event, Rahway School Superintendent Dr. Patricia Camp offered, “The donation to the Hemophilia Association is yet another example of how the Rahway community, in the schools and in the community at large, pulls together to honor a student and to help others. The Fire and Ice Ball took enormous effort and was a huge success as both a fun social event and a fundraiser.”
“Hemophilia impacts every aspect of our lives,” admits Andrew’s mom Milinda Gonzalez, “physically, emotionally, financially, and spiritually.” She adds, “This donation will help other families who struggle with this condition and better their quality of life; I am truly appreciative to Rahway High School, Vice Principal Chey Rivera, and to all their hard work to give back to the Hemophilia Community.”
At a very poignant moment during the formal presentation of the donation in his name, recognizing that his mission had now been supported by his community, Andrew shared, “I know having this condition has a great impact towards my life and, because of Rahway High School, this check will have an impact on other families who are associated with the Hemophilia Association of NJ as well.” He sends, “Big Thanks to RHS and to EVERYONE in the community who donated!”
Photo by Katherine Turon-Debicki, Rahway Public Schools
