Reaching for a Cure

 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.