Special night for Matt DiStefano and Dezy Strong Foundation
A sea of orange and blue took over Nassau Coliseum on Thursday night. It was Carolina blue though and the support was for Matt DiStefano.
The New York Islanders, as part of their community initiatives, hosted the Dezy Strong Foundation and drew more attention to the organization started by DiStefano, a Sachem alum, teacher and coach, who is fighting against kidney cancer.
Countless supporters flocked to all angles of the Coliseum and could be heard chanting “Dezy, Dezy” at 4:45 and 14:45 of each period. DiStefano learned that he was diagnosed with cancer at 4:45 p.m.
DiStefano, affectionately known as “Dezy”, has been selfless in his fight. He started the foundation just a few months after the shocking news, and has never looked back.
DiStefano has been a positive voice for many cancer fighters in the region. During the holiday season he personally delivered gifts to children suffering from various forms of cancer and brightened their mood and holiday spirit.
On Thursday hundreds gathered before the game at a nearby restaurant to tailgate and raise funds and awareness for the organization. Islanders legend Clark Gillies and Islanders playoff standout Shawn Bates attended and later spent time with DiStefano in his box at the game.
Fans in attendance received Dezy Strong rally towels. There was a highlight video played about Dezy and the foundation and special Isles-Dezy shirts were on sale as well.
After the second intermission, DiStefano made his way around the inner ring of the arena where dozens and dozens of his friends, family and supporters greeted him.
