Meet Matt
The Volpe family became a patient family of Embrace Kids Foundation in 2009 when their son, Johnny, was diagnosed with cancer. Although Johnny has now been successfully treated for cancer, the impact that RUDM has had on their family has been life changing.
When first introduced to Embrace Kids Foundation, Johnny was paired with the brothers of Chi Psi fraternity through the RU4Kids Program. Carla Volpe, Johnny’s mother, believes that Johnny would not have gotten through this treatment as well as he did without the brothers of Chi Psi. “They have become friends forever and they are bonds that will last forever. Every year since 2009 we look forward to supporting the dancers at Dance Marathon. They got Johnny through some really hard times and it is truly an Honor to be in their presence every year at RUDM.”
Although out of treatment, The Volpe family continues to support and be advocates for RUDM. When asked how RUDM made such a major impact on their family, Carla remembers one memory in particular. “ One moment that sticks out in our memory is when Johnny was pulled up on stage by the dancers to participate in the Line Dance. The smile on Johnny’s face and the energy in the room is something we will never ever forget. He followed along and did a great job dancing. They gave a little boy with a horrible disease Hope and Strength to fight and go on.”
The Volpes have seen the relationship between RUDM and Embrace Kids Foundation grow tremendously since their time as a patient family. “There are a lot more patient families and children now compared to when Johnny was diagnosed in May, 2009. I can only see the relationship with Rutgers and Embrace continue to get stronger and stronger. Our family will always support RUDM and Embrace Kids Foundation. We are forever grateful.”
Related posts
