Lawrence Madeiros Scholarship Fund

 

 

 

 

 

 

2023

Luc C. Chapall is from Sewell, NJ and will be pursuing a Business degree at the University of Tennessee.  Luc and several of his family have May-Hegglin anomoly which is a rare platelet disorder that causes pain, sluggishness and he bleeds easily.  Luc also is inspired and helps his younger sister with cerebral palsey along with everything in his own life.  "I believe in earning things and I believe in the power of a positive mind.  My sister will continue to be a reminder to me about the power of perseverance, love and perspective."

Lindsey E. Darnell is from Clarkston, MI and will be pursuing a degree at the University of Michigan for Pre-Med.  Lindsey has Lyme Disease and Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome which caused multiple surgeries for Slipped Ribs Syndrome, temporary paralysis, extreme burning, pain, and memory issues to name a few.  "My story is uncommon, it tore me to skin and bones, but it taught me how to stand up, persevere and fight.  I learned that even though life is not fair, we must keep pushing, face it and run toward the battle."

James M. DeLano is from Hoover, AL and will be pursuing a degree at the University of Alabama and studying Library Science.  James has Mitochondrial disorder, HLH disease, GI dysmotility to name a few.  He requires a G tube for feeding and will use a wheelchair when needed to conserve energy from fatigue.  "Due to my health, I have never been able to attend school in person full time, but I have always believed education was my ticket to normalcy.  I want to give to others through my future work as a librarian with expertise in diversity, equity and inclusion."

Nora E. Getchell is from Mastic Beach, NY and will be pursuing a degree at the Ringling College of Art for visual studies of Art and Design.  Nora has Idiopathic severe Aplastic Anemia which required chemotherapy, radiation, transfusions and two bone marrow transplants.  "While going through my transplant, I learned the importance of self-care.  After my treatment, I joined the Youth Advisory program for the Stony Brook Children's Hospital to help show kids there is light at the end of the tunnel, by helping them fight the battle I have already won."

Emery G. Johnson is from Granville, OH and will be pursuing a degree at Ohio State University in Psychology.  She has Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis and Lyme disease which affected her hands until her whole body was overcome by swollen joints.  "I had gone from being a child, to barely being able to walk a few months later.  I can never truly return to the child I once was, however my disease gifted me something equally as precious; empathy and compassion for humanity."

Elizabeth J. Mickens is from Springfield, MA and will be pursuing a degree at Bard for studio Art and Dance.  She has Sickle Cell Anemia since birth along with her two brothers, causing debilitating pain.  "Having sickle cell has made me appreciate life and realize what is important to me, my family, friends, and artistic pursuits.  I try to find joy in small victories and try to be kind to everyone.  I have shown grit and determination, and I have persevered through all obstacles."

Elijah S. Walters is from Loveland, OH and will be pursuing a degree at Muskingum University to become a teacher.  Elijah has Legg-Calve Perthes requiring over 20 surgeries, hospital stay, physical therapy along with constant pain and medical PTSD.  "Despite all these challenges, there has been some beauty from these ashes.  I created a non-profit called MightE1 where we make space for students with disabilities to get the opportunity to simply...play ball.  My disease has taught me to be resilient and fight through pain and keep moving forward."

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2022

Matthew R. Hylen is from Canton, MA and will be pursuing a career in Criminal Justice at the University of Tampa.  Matthew suffers from Ulcerative Colitis and Chairi 1 Malformation. Even with his disorders, Matthew has been committed to serving and giving back.  "Some people will live their whole lives and not take a risk, be afraid to take a chance and just accept what they are given.  I know better.  I see the world through a more giving, humbler lens now.  I know what life was like before I was sick, and I know what life can be as long as I continue to do the right things."

Matthew A. Moeller is from Bloomingdale, NJ and will be pursuing a Marketing degree at Ramapo College of New Jersey.  Matthew is a fraternal triplet with Cerebral Palsy.  Although Matthew has a number of limitations, he is a prime example of putting "ability" in disability.  "I have constant tightness in my legs which causes me to get tired easily and not be able to walk long distances and have constant back pain.  I use hand controls to drive because it is hard for me to step on the gas pedal.  Although there are many obstacles in life, it does not stop me from accomplishing my goals and trying my best."

Benjamin P. Pethe is from Metairie, LA and will be pursuing a degree in Exercise Science at Tulane University.  Benjamin has severe Hemophilia since birth.  "I understood from a young age that I would have to take infusions three times per week for the rest of my life, that I would never be able to play contact sports, that I would have to be extra cautious to avoid being physically hurt.  I have been fortunate thus far in my life to where I have managed my hemophilia in a way that has let me live a happy and fulfilled life."

Kyle D. Romanewicz is from Bixby, OK and will be pursuing a degree in Architecture at Drury University.  Kyle has Cerebral Palsy and seizures that limit many of his abilities.  "I go though life running to physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech and cognitive function therapy.  My seizure activity has prevented me from obtaining a weekend job, participate in sporting activities and unable to get a license.  I survive and try to live life to the fullest.  I come upon a hurdle and persevere through it by adapting so that I too can experience everything life has to offer."

Adele Y. Shepin is from Lake Hopatcong, NJ and will be pursuing a degree in Biology at Rutgers University.  Adele has moderate to severe Crohn's Disease at an early age.  "What was initially seen as a burden has become a teacher.  Because of Crohn's disease, I have learned about my body and myself.  I was pushed out of my comfort zone, forced to confront my own mortality, and I am now stronger because of it.  Every day is a challenge and a blessing. What started out as a plan to improve my own life, has transformed into a life-long dedication to helping others."

Rebekah E. Sweany is from Muskegon, MI and will be pursuing a Psychology degree at Cornerstone University.  Rebekah has Lyme Disease and was misdiagnosed for over four years with musculoskeletal pain, fatigue and severe crippling depression.  "Being chronically ill has been incredibly painful, both physically and emotionally.  However, there are still good things that have come out of this suffering.  I have a new layer of empathy that one can only be gained by experiencing a chronic illness.  My limitations taught me to prioritize what is most important to me: family, health and volunteering."

 

2021

Samuel A. Celedon is from Austin, TX and will be pursuing a biomedical engineering degree at the University of Texas.  Samuel has Cystic Fibrosis, a congenital mucous disorder that affects the lungs and digestive system.  "My journey with CF is long and complicated, often muddled and aggravated by issues that still pervade my life like emotional trauma, abuse, wealth inequality and family dynamics.  I can only be grateful that I am where I am today because of Cystic Fibrosis."

Prosser T. Crow is from Pennsacola, FL and will be pursuing a sports management degree at Huntington College.  Prosser has Cerebral Palsy and Autism and doctors thought he would never walk or talk.  "If I did not have CP, I don't know if I would be as determined as I am.  I wish my hands and legs worked better, but then I remember I was not supposed to walk or talk, much less run and I get to do that every day."

Jordyn L. Dellis is from Waukesha, WI and will be pursuing a human resource management degree at the University of Wisconsin - Madison.  At the age of 11, Jordyn was finally diagnosed with the blood condition of thrombocytopenia and a mutated gene.  "While to most, living with a chronic condition means setbacks, hinderances and obstacles, I embrace my ability to stand firm in my identity beyond thrombocytopenia."

Faith C. Ettlich is from Portsmouth, NH and will be pursuing a bachelor of music in piano performance at Gordon College.  Faith was diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis while still in utero and there were not many treatments available to her.  "In having CF, I have had more to manage, more health-related trials and troubles than the average person.  However, I have still been able to pursue a rigorous homeschool education, a consistent recreational lifestyle and involvement in church."

Riki L. Kaiser is from Orwell, OH and will be pursuing a psychology major on a pre-med track at Case Western Reserve University.  Riki lives with degenerative neurological disease known as Charcot Maire Tooth.  CMT affects both gross and fine motor skills making otherwise simple tasks more difficult.  "My disability has led me to adopt a new way of doing the same things everyone else does - type instead of write, bike instead of run, and so on."

Mizell L. Jackson is from Jackson, NJ and will be pursuing a degree in acting/musical theatre at Marymount Manhattan College.  Jackson was diagnosed with Crohn's at an unusually young age of 4 and has undergone more than 40 surgical procedures.  "Dealing with the adversities of my illness has helped me to develop the ability to be flexible as well as to put things into perspective.  It has allowed me to deepen my sense of empathy towards others."

Justin T. Matzner is from Stony Brook, NY and will be pursuing an occupational therapy degree at the University of Scranton.  Justin as an exceedingly rare medical growth condition called Pseudoachondroplasia, a condition that affects the growth of his joints and required multiple surgeries over the years.  "Growing up was a little different for me than everyone I was around, but now I understand why, and it helped shape who I am and who I want to be."

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2020

Arianna C. Gehan is from Randolph, NJ and will be pursuing a degree in biomedical engineering at Stevens Institute of Technology. Arianna has Diabetes and volunteers at both the local and national level. " Volunteering and diabetes have helped me to become a more confident person. I have learned how to use my voice to make change, and I have been able to relate and connect to so many wonderful people. While I would not wish disease on anyone, living with diabetes has made me a stronger person ready to change the world for the better."

Elisha M Mann-Robinson is from Newton, MA and will be pursuing a degree in computer science at Northeastern University. Elisha has severe Hemophilia and advocates at the local and national level for equal access to care. "I can't control my genes, so I am the supreme high commander of solutions. I'm still a problem solver, and explorer of what's possible. But I know that my true study needs to be people, in all of their complexity, learning to understand, collaborate, and solve our most critical problems."

Divya S. Mehrich is from New York, NY and will be pursuing a degree in medical humanities at Stanford University. Divya was diagnosed with Ulcerative Colitis at the age of 13 and knows what it feels like to be almost dead. "My experiences have helped me appreciate that each person faces unique circumstances, struggling in his or her own way. Although we can never fully understand the experiences swirling behind the facade of another individual's silence or smile, we can always try to empathize with them."

Nathan G. Mermilliod is from Riverside, CA and will be pursuing a degree in biology at Chapman University. Nathan has severe Hemophilia and was chosen to perform the National Musical in NYC, "Hemophilia the Musical". "My passion for biology and pursuing hemophilia research and advocacy developed into an aspiration for medicine, where I may specialize in hematology. There is no cause more prominent in my life than the protect people from the life of limitations and medical hardships and to continue to advocate for the hemophilia community on a variety of fronts."

Morgan L Nowak is from Woodruff, WI and will be pursuing a degree in business and medicine at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire. Morgan was diagnosed with Diabetes at the age of four. "I strongly believe that kindness and compassion will get someone very far in life and can make this world a more positive place to live in. My passion is to be able to make a difference in someone's life by being kind and compassionate. I believe that will help me develop a future in voluntary work because I want to be the change we see in the world."

Madison M. Pryce is from Holliston, MA and will be pursuing a degree in education at NYU. Madison has had numerous disorders ranging from PFAPA, with high fevers, seizures and sores, to severe and life-threatening allergies. "I hope I can give my future students the courage to find their voice and be confident enough to stand up for themselves and what they believe in. I myself was racially harassed in school because of my skin color. I want to inspire my future students as my teachers have inspired me."

Grace M. Thompson is from Oviedo, FL and will be pursuing a degree in medicine to become a pediatric geneticist at the University of South Florida. Grace has been diagnosed with two debilitating illnesses, Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome. "I understand how hard it is to hit rock bottom, but I also understand how beautiful it is to overcome obstacles and how unique of a world view my set of circumstances have given me."

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2019

Mikayla E. Lawless is from Groveland, MA and will be pursuing a degree in Nursing at Endicott College. She has Ehlers Danlos Hypermobile which requires her to use a wheelchair when she is experiencing shoulder or hip pain. "Living with Ehlers Danlos Hypermobile has been the easier part of my life. The long sleepless nights when my shoulder  just wasn't in the socket right, the braces that covered my entire body as I went to school. It is more of how the outside world viewed me when my disability began to show the greatly impacted my life." 

Alexandrya A. Robinson is from Caldwell, ID and will be pursuing a degree in Microbiology at the University of Hawaii. She has Ehlers Danlos, PTSD, Chronic Pain, Depression, Occipital Neuralgia and other disorders. At the age of seven she was involved in an auto accident that paralyzed her from the waist down. "My doctor that told me I was never going to be able to do what I wanted in life was wrong. He was baffled when I took my first step after the car accident and I fully intend to continue to baffle anyone's expectations - even my own."

Luke D. Luckey is from Ann Harbor, MI and will be pursuing a degree in Biological Sciences at the University of Michigan. He lived his first 9 years of his life in an orphanage in China where treatment for Hemophilia was inadequate. "Getting around in the orphanage was hard, because I had no crutches or wheelchair. I mainly used my left leg to get from one place to another. The pain that I endured transformed me into a strong and passionate person who is capable of doing anything."

Evan P. Bean is from Trumbell, CT and will be pursuing a degree in Chemical Engineering at the University of Pennsylvania. Evan was diagnosed with gastroparesis (low gastric motility) a chronic disorder that causes severe abdominal cramping and pain, chest discomfort and difficulty breathing. "My gastroparesis exhibits itself in severe, random abdominal pain that is incapacitating. nausea, and vomiting. It usually comes in waves, every month or so knocking me out for a few days. It is not fun."

Lexi E. Cotrell is from Oxford, NC and will be pursuing a degree in Biology at North Carolina State University. When she was 2 years old she was diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis (CF) a progressive life-threatening disease that causes lung infections and limits the ability to breathe over time. "For this reason, minimizing contact with germs and doing airway clearance is important for me to protect my lungs and keep them healthy for as long as I can."

Brayden R. Reeves is from Burleson, TX and will be pursuing a degree in Information Technology at McMurry University. Brayden received his Autism diagnosis at the age of 4. "I have always struggled with social skills. And for me, that means people understanding me and at the same time, me understanding them. I know this world does not revolve around me but if others could have compassion, acceptance, and patience for those that need extra time communicating, society would be a better place."

Samantha D. Williams is from Concord, NC and will be pursuing a degree in International Studies at Meredith College. At 6 months old she had a stroke and has Hemiplegia Cerebral Palsy. "As a disabled person, I have been bullied or overlooked in a group or class because people don't know how to deal with me. It is due to this that I have decided to major in International Studies and the healthcare field."

Rachel R. Ritchey is from York, PA and will be pursuing a degree in Communications at Millersville University. At the age of 5 she was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes and recently, binge eating, anxiety, and depression. "My conditions do not define me, but rather the steps I take to live out my life the way I envision it with them. I find myself in dark places sometimes, but I know they are only temporary because I will get better."

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2018

Rachel L. Carden is from Mt. Washington, KY and will be pursuing a degree in Health Sciences at Eastern Kentucky University.  Rachel has Lyme Disease, Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia, Primary Immunoglobulin Deficiency to name a few.  "I am able to do everything anyone else would do, even though all of these illnesses should be debilitating.  I learned how strong I am, and how much perseverance I can show."

Adrian C. Chan is from Centennial, CO and will be pursuing a degree in biochemistry at UCLA.  He has severe Hemophilia B.  "For Fourteen years, I saw Hemophilia as my own personal problem that no one at school could relate to. But after getting into an accident with a fellow classmate during my junior year, I realized my purpose in life and I started the Regis Jesuit Hemophilia Society.  We spread awareness and fundraise to support a child with Hemophilia from another part of the world through Save one Life."

Kelsey R. Dobson is from San Francisco, CA and will be pursuing a business marketing degree at St. John's University.  Kelsey has had to battle Cystic Fibrosis for most of her life.  "CF has always been my life, it is what's normal to me.  The overwhelming number of medications create an impact on my life, because I have to alter the way I live every dat.  I live to strengthen my lungs, not let the sustain my weakness."

Ayiani B. Gallaspy-Seaman is from Kountze, TX and will be pursuing a Pre-Med degree at the University of Texas.  She has Ehlers Danlos, POTS, and Gillian Barre Syndrome.  "I have learned how to focus on the positive aspects of what my health has taught me.  Some people let the flames of life burn them, I chose to let the flames refine me, teach me, direct me, and become motivation to pursue a career in nursing."

Anna E. King is from Mayfield, NY and will be pursuing a graphic design degree at Lasell College.  She suffers from Immuno-suppression due to a heart transplant.  "At the age of 12, I was unexpectedly diagnosed with dilated cardiomyopathy and needed a heart transplant to live.  Since receiving my heart at age 14, I've dedicated service as a public speaker to promote organ donation across the country."

Emma R. Lockwood is from Cincinnati, OH and will be pursuing a graphic design degree at Miami University.  Emma has Spinal Muscular Atrophy(SMA) and Crohn's.  "Even though SMA causes my muscles to not work properly, my parents taught me that life is not about my (dis)abilities; never give up and reach out to others in need.  My struggles with SMA have strengthened my character, service, leadership, and scholarship; these pillars have always structured my life."

Jessica M. Nolan is from Lebanon, NJ and will be pursuing a degree towards Psychology Research at Monmouth University.  She has suffered from Kleine Levin Syndrome.  "After the long journey I endured, I wanted to share my story. I created a blog to raise awareness and motivate people to keep going no matter what may come their way.  I wanted to inspire people to persevere like I so proudly did."

McKenzie J. Poetzel is from Menomonee Falls, WI and will be pursuing a degree in Molecular Biology at the University of Madison Wisconsin.  When she was nine years old she developed Ulcerative Colitis.  "It has taught me that I am resilient. I have experienced immense pain and suffered physically, mentally and emotionally.  Every day I tackle new battles head on.  Despite my setbacks, I pride myself in my resiliency to succeed in academics, athletics, jobs and service."

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2017

Allison N. Blackman is from West Jordan, Utah and will be pursuing an Art degree as Snow College.  Allison has Ehlers Danlos Syndrome(EDS) which is a hypermobility and joint condition, so her joints never stay in place like they should and often move too far the wrong way so she needs to wear braces.  "I plan to be as independent as I can.  My family and I have invested in Assistive Technologies, and I hope I'm able to receive additional devices in the upcoming future to help me be more independent. Being independent is extremely important to me and I hope that one day I will be able to fully support myself, including medical expenses caused by my chronic illness."

Nicholas T. Evola is from Miller Place, NY and will be pursuing a degree in nursing at Sacred Heart University.  Nicholas has Super Ventricular Tachycardia (SVT) which causes his heart to beat extremely fast and he has undergone numerous surgeries for.  I will be under a Cardiologists care for the rest of my life, but I realize it's better than the alternative.  I would like to help others who are struggling with an illness that they can't control.  I realize I have to deal with the things I am in control of and give over the power to others who can help me get better."

Kelsey J. Redd is from Millersville, Maryland and will be pursuing a degree in sign language interpretation at the University of North Carolina.  Kelsey has Long QT Syndrome which is attacks on her body causing her to pass out.  "My heart has changed me, no arguing with that fact; but what have I become?  I have become a leader; I am someone who makes no excuses.  I am someone who earns what they have.  I am someone who takes the short end of the stick and makes a roaring flame bigger than anyone could imagine.  I made something out of nothing.  I realized I am  here for a reason.  I am here to show the world anything is possible."

Calynn R. Vitus is from Hagaman, NY and will be pursuing a degree in Engineering at RPI.  When Calynn was 12 she was diagnosed with Leukemia and fighting for her life.  "Waking up every day healthy and alive is not something to take for granted.  I realized I must cherish the moments I have, right in front of me, at this very second because soon enough before I or anyone else will notice, they will be gone.  I started to be more positive, more happy and full of life.  I started to view everyday situations and the obstacles that faced me differently.  I became more grateful for my life, the people in it and everything else I had been blessed with:"

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 2016 

Sadie E. Dunne is from Clifton Park, NY and will be pursuing a nursing degree at Mount Saint Mary College. When she turned 11, Sadie was losing energy, drinking water excessively and going to the bathroom until she was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes.  "I believe that being diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes has made the greatest difference in my life.  It made me grow up quickly and made me realize that life is precious.  Perhaps diabetes has helped me the most by teaching me right from wrong, how to be kind, and considerate and non-judgmental of others."

Kerry A. Golden is from Delmar, NY and will be pursuing a degree in communications at Quinnipiac University.  Kerry was born with 

exotropia, convergence insufficiency with refractive error.  Exotropia is a muscle condition where one eye turns outward when both eyes are open.  Her other condition, results in blurred vision or double vision, making school work very difficult.  "At the start of the school year I was very discouraged and felt different than everyone else when I was taken out of the room for an alternate site when testing.  However, as a result of my hard work and perseverance, I realized that I am capable of achieving success."

Justin M. Horbacz is from Ocean, NJ and will be pursuing a biology degree at the University of Florida.  Justin was born with severe Hemophilia A but has had much optimistic and encouraging guidance in his life from his family.  "My family and I sponsor 30 children with hemophilia from 6 developing countries through Save One Life.  Experiences related to living with hemophilia have helped shape the person I have become today. How I take advantage of these experiences from my background in pursuit of my goals is what I am most proud of.  It has been my own personal initiative that has solidified my goal to study medicine and become a pediatric Hematologist."

Ryan J. Majinski is from New Berlin, WI and will be pursuing a degree in biomedical science at the University of Wisconsin.  Ryan has moderate Hemophilia A and was unaware of his Hemophilia until the age of 5 when he bit his tongue and it bled for a week until being diagnosed.  "I was initially embarrassed about my disorder.  It made me different from the other children my age and I resented the disparity.  Throughout all the challenges in life, having hemophilia has certainly turned out to be a positive one. It has made me the cautious and caring person that I am today, and it eventually led me to meet my friends and discover my passion for theater."

Jacob M. Mazuryk is from Schenectady, NY and is pursuing a degree in mechanical engineering at Union College.  Jacob has had Type 1 Diabetes for over ten years and sees many positives from having this chronic disorder.  "From an early age I was taught how to manage my diabetes.  I administered my own insulin through a syringe when I was 7 years old.  My long-term well-being and quality of life depend on how carefully I manage my diabetes. Diabetes has taught many math skills, juggling he art of balance, communicating with many amazing insightful people and to learn to be a happy and healthy human being."

Aniela C. Wilcenski is from Ballston Lake, NY and is pursuing a degree in English and Writing at Columbia University.  Aniela has severe bi-lateral multi-directional shoulder instability.  By the time she was diagnosed, her shoulders were is so much pain and limited that she couldn't open doors, put on a seatbelt, or lift her arms.  My struggles with my shoulders taught me that I have the power to achieve whatever I put my mind to, both in terms of recovery and rehabilitation and in terms of overcoming any mental and physical obstacles I encounter.  They remind me that there is always a way to make the best out of even the most negative situation."

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