Learn where our inspiration comes from.
In 1984, Gerardo Lotrecchiano and his wife Carmela formed the Cystinosis Foundation of New Jersey in response to the lack of information about the disease and insufficient research funding for this disease. Cystinosis claimed the life of their only son, Gerardo when he was five years old. Shortly after this tragedy, their youngest daughter, Gerardina, was diagnosed with cystinosis, as well. They knew that there was a great need to take action and they teamed with Gaetano DiBenedetto, President of the foundation, Gerardo DiBenedetto, founding Treasurer of the foundation and many other close friends on the board (Anna DiBenedetto, Esperia DiBenedetto, John & Maria DiMilia, Lenny & Angie Marzullo) to host the 1st annual gala fundraiser. Our fund raising efforts are still going strong and to date have raised over $875,000 for research; more funds are needed until there is a cure and no child or adult suffers from this disease.
President: Annie Basile
Vice President: Giovanni (John) DiMilia
1st Recording Secretary: Laura Chichelo
2nd Recording Secretary: Gerardina
Lotrecchiano Lombardi
1st Corresponding Secretary: Maria Turano
2nd Corresponding Secretary: Theresa Venezia
Treasurer: Enza Marzullo
2nd Assistant Treasurer: Leonardo Marzullo
Medical Advisor: Dr. Mary Jo DiMilia
**Board Members**: Maria DiMilia, Giovanni Iacono, Captain Vincent Lombardi, Carmela Lotrecchiano, Angelina Marzullo, Dominick Pugliese
Copyright © 2018 Cystinosis Foundation of New Jersey - All Rights Reserved.