To the Editor:
On March 31, the Joseph Lillo Spinal Muscular Atrophy Foundation for Children held its first Breakfast with the Bunny. As this was our first event of this kind, we were not sure of what kind of turnout we would have. Words cannot express how excited we were to watch so many delightful children and their families join us that morning. The outpouring of support we witnessed, yet again, from the community of Bayonne and surrounding areas, was heartwarming.
The success of this event was only possible because of the time, talents, and donations of so many special people. We’d like to take this opportunity to thank the following: Hot & Toasty Bagels; Broadway Bagels; Tropicana Inc.; Hot Bagel Co.; Stop and Shop; ShopRite; St. Henry’s Church; Melanie Spath; Grace Oland; the Powers family; Nancy Scott; Ashley Maino; Stephanie and Rachel Zaleski; Danielle Pileggi; Jackson Dilullo; Francesca Lillo; and Serena Perez.
I’d like to give a great big thank you to our special bunny helpers, Rob DiPaula and Christie Scott. To the amazing members of our foundation, without all of you this important mission of ours would not be entering its fourth successful year. You have all given your time, energy, expertise, and mostly your hearts.
Thank you to Tara Dilullo and Monica Perez, event coordinators; Melissa Sisk; Amy Cottone Spagnolo; Angelo and Chrissy Maino; Allison Martin; Kathy Powers; Teri Zaleski; Dana Cleary; and Lisa Burke. Thank you to Ali Minunni, Aggie Gillespie and Michael McCabe for your behind the scenes support.
Lastly, I’d like to thank my husband Dominic, for without his support and strength, I would never be able to move forward with this mission that means so much to us. Bayonne is a strong, loving community and we take care of each other here. I have yet to witness another community where there is such an outpouring of support. You were all there during our time of need, and you all continue to stand by our side on our quest to raise awareness and support for Spinal Muscular Atrophy. Keep believing.
ROSE LILLO
Founder & Executive Director of the Joseph Lillo Spinal Muscular Foundation for Children