Mathew DiNapoli, son of Jackie and Al Kos and a longtime resident of Farmingdale (most recently of Mahopac, NY) lost his lifelong battle with a devastating digestive illness on July 1, 2011. Mat had a big, infectious smile, an even bigger heart, loved everyone so easily and was always willing to help. Born on May 5, 1976, he made what should have been a challenging life an extraordinary life. Constantly overcoming adversity, he fought his whole life to be “normal.” When Mat was 9 he testified before the board of education, his school and the town to force them to allow him to participate in gym and recess and other more aggressive school activities. He won and went on to proudly say he played football, lacrosse, ice hockey, baseball and wrestling. He surfed and skied and snowboarded and proved any physical limitations that his illness should have given him were not getting in his way. His ability to not be defined by illness is remarkable, but that was Mat—he was remarkable.
He met Justine, the love of his life, in college and together they made the most perfect life together despite Mat’s health. What more could one ask for but to be surrounded by a mother who would walk through fire for him, a family that loved and supported him, friends who always had his back and the love of a lifetime with his wife. He had more life in his short 35 years than most have in a life lived to 100. Those who knew Mat would say that they feel better for having had the chance to know him and love him and be a part of his journey. His family asks you all to remember Mat and how he always saw the good and not to mourn him but to celebrate him. It is not fair that he left us so young but he would want us to focus on the time he was here rather than how quick he had to leave.
Mat was too big and wonderful of a spirit to have lived in such a fragile body, he deserved so much better. He fought a good fight and pushed his body to its limits to make sure he enjoyed each and every moment. This past year his family had new reason to hope, Mat had been added to and placed at the top of the transplant list for a large and small intestine. Unfortunately his health did not allow that chance to be given. He was blessed with many miracles and always found a way to beat the odds. He was the best son, husband, brother and friend and he will be loved always. As a way to honor his memory, his family asked that in lieu of donation people try to perform a random act of kindness in Mat’s name. A truly befitting testament to the life he led.
