An open letter of thanks

One word keeps playing in my head: “Wow” What an event thrown on Saturday night by Vernon Rotary, St. Francis de Sales and the Vernon P.A.L. It was an electric night with over 400 people in attendance. I knew all along I was going to have to speak in front of a crowd like this and never have had a problem doing so in the past to crowds of this size. However this was different as it was full of family, friends and community leaders who all came together to help support me and my family. Emotions definitely took over as I was overwhelmed the entire night, once I saw the magnitude of this event and knowing what it had meant to me and my family. The financial support is greatly appreciated as our expenses between medical bills, overnight stays in Philadelphia and being self-employed created a loss of income for over four months now. The outreach of the community, family and friends has been incredible and to see everyone in attendance Saturday night gave me a warm feeling that words cannot describe. It’s been a journey since June 12. I think of this date as my second birthday. I’m fortunate and blessed to now have two birthday celebrations a year! It’s had to believe this was only four months ago, feeling the way I do today. One important issue near and dear to my heart as I stressed to everyone on Saturday night is to create awareness for the need of organ donors. There are not enough donors for people waiting for “their new lease on life.” I realize I am very fortunate and thank God, my donor and donor’s family as well as my family every day. Without them I would not be here today. Please take time to read about and look into becoming an organ donor. On that note there are several people that need some special recognition, I have to personally thank Fr. Boland, for his words of encouragement, his prayers and his generosity in letting us use this great facility for the blood drive and Saturday’s event. David Gornstein and Susan George, the backbones of the fundraising events. They have also become very close and special friends. Jeanne Buffalino — without her we would have not been able to pull off the 50/50. Pam Reed and her entire Tricky Tray staff, they put in countless hours of work and soliciting merchants. The merchants, individuals, organizations and teams who donated baskets to the tricky tray. Everyone who made a cash donation, everyone who attended the beefsteak. Straus newpapers, AIM Vernon news, NJ Herald for all the great coverage and support as well. The last but most important people I need to thank are my wife Annette and my children: Matthew, Danny, Andrew and Kristi. No words can describe what they went through and the support and love they all have given me. Thank you everyone. Jim DiZenzo Vernon bi-lateral lung recipient, 6/12/2009