As April comes to a close, so does our fiscal year—and with it, a moment of gratitude, pride, and deep reflection. Over the past 12 months, the Fightstrong Foundation has donated over $55,000 in cherishable gifts and essentials to more than 50 families across the tri-state area. This year was one of establishment: we expanded our mission, strengthened our presence, and made meaningful connections that will carry us forward.
We ended this year by doing what we love most—meeting incredible fighters and giving them moments of light during dark times. In April, we proudly supported four individuals and made a meaningful contribution to a cause close to our hearts.
Meet Dana
Dana Addivinola is a true light in Toms River, NJ—a woman whose resilience and joy radiate through every word and smile. Diagnosed with brainstem glioma in 2018 after years of advocating for herself, Dana has faced her battle with grace, creativity, and humor. When we learned of Dana’s love for Sex and the City, we knew exactly how we could bring her joy. We gifted her a private “Sex and the City” van tour through NYC for her and seven guests, along with a gift card to Carmine’s to enjoy a celebratory meal. We’re also honored to walk alongside Dana on May 10th at the New Jersey Brain Tumor Walk, standing with her and for her in every step of her journey.
Meet Benny
At just 8 years old, Benny from Vernon, NJ has endured ten brain surgeries, 90 rounds of radiation, and countless treatments since being diagnosed with ependymoma in 2020. Despite his challenges, Benny’s spirit, humor, and imagination shine bright. His one wish was simple: a shopping spree at Target. We joined Benny and his family for a day filled with laughter, joy, and aisle after aisle of everything that made him smile—from Hot Wheels and stuffed animals to essentials like clothes and shoes. Spending time with Benny reminded us exactly why we do this: to make room for joy, even in the midst of hardship.
Supporting Isabel
This month, we also met Isabel, a woman currently recovering from breast cancer surgeries and navigating a physically and emotionally exhausting chapter. While her full story will be shared soon, we were grateful to provide essential gift cards to help with food shopping and household needs. More importantly, we reminded her she’s not alone—and we’ll be here to walk beside her through recovery.
Supporting a Local Couple
We were also introduced to a couple facing a challenging road with cancer treatment and financial instability. We provided gift cards for groceries and essentials, ensuring they had support not just for the fight ahead, but for the daily needs that can weigh so heavily during treatment.
Supporting a Cause Close to Home
We proudly contributed to Katie Parrinello and Bounce Studios in support of their fundraising for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS)—a cause that hits home for us at Fightstrong. Katie’s dedication mirrors our own, and we were honored to stand beside her in raising funds for life-saving research and support.
Looking Back on a Year of Growth
This past year was a testament to the power of purpose and people. Our Third Annual Golf Outing in July was our most successful event to date, bringing together 221 golfers, 53 sponsors, and raising over $150,000—thanks in large part to our hosts at Victory Home Remodeling and partners like Beacon Roofing Supply, MI Windows & Doors, and many more. From live art to heartfelt awards, it was a day of connection, generosity, and love.
In September, we helped lead a special initiative for the pediatric units of Rutgers Cancer Institute of NJ and Children’s Specialized Hospital at RWJ, donating 450 custom t-shirts and hosting pizza parties for both staff and patients. We connected face-to-face with families, shared our story, and promised to make this a yearly tradition.
In December, we hosted our Third Annual Christmas Donation, celebrating 9 incredible families with a warm holiday lunch and a room filled with joy, gifts, and love. From PS5s and kitchen sets to gaming monitors and heartfelt moments, this event embodied the spirit of what we strive to do: bring light to life’s darkest seasons.
We also launched two new online community groups, continued building relationships with local hospitals, and spent more time than ever with the families we serve—whether online or in person.
Looking Forward
As we enter a new fiscal year, our mission remains stronger than ever: to give, to connect, and to remind every fighter that they are not alone. We have big dreams ahead—and we cannot wait to achieve them with the support of our community!
Together as one, we Fightstrong.
Thank you for being with us every step of the way.