I want to share a story with you about a courageous little girl named Julia who lives in my hometown of Glen Cove. Julia was born with a genetic disorder called neurofibromatosis. The disorder causes tumors to grow on nerves. NF will often lead to other conditions such as cardiovascular problems, chronic pain, blindness, deafness, bone defects, disfigurement and many other complications. Treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy and radiation.
While Julia has suffered periods of extreme discomfort throughout her young life, she and her parents, Anthony and Laura Perfetti, remain steadfast in their commitment to raise awareness and find a cure.
Over the years, the Perfettis have been active in a national not-for profit organization called the Children’s Tumor Foundation and they have organized a local chapter. To raise funds, the Perfettis host different events, including an annual dinner.
This year, they have scheduled a wonderful event for the whole family to enjoy – a carnival that will take place on Saturday, July 17 (rain date July 18) at 57 Sugar Maple Lane in Glen Cove between the hours of 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. Each activity/food item costs one ticket, which is only $1. A donation of $100 gets your family a “free day” covering all the games you can play and food you can eat. It also includes 25 raffle tickets and two 50/50 tickets. Each and every cent raised will go directly to the charity.
I encourage readers to attend this fun-filled day of games, music and delicious food. Julia and her family will appreciate us all doing something really good for our community.
Assemblyman Charles D. Lavine
