The White Plains Examiner

Smiling Eyes Fundraiser for White Plains High School Alumnus

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Paul Fitzgerald
Paul Fitzgerald

The White Plains High School Class of 1973 held a wine-tasting fundraiser April 25 for classmate Paul Fitzgerald.

Popular for his smiling eyes, Fitzgerald needs stem cell treatment for a type of bone cancer known as Myelodysplatic Syndrome. Fitzgerald was only recently diagnosed and treatment has been scheduled for May 9 at Johns Hopkins Hospital.

Forced into a tough financial situation, the Fitzgerald family organized Paul’s Smiling Eyes MDS fund.

From left to right, Chris Gambelli, Evelyn Petrone and Donna Menin at the April 25th wine tasting. Paula Piekos Photos
From left to right, Chris Gambelli, Evelyn Petrone and Donna Menin at the April 25th wine tasting. Paula Piekos Photos

The wine tasting at Gambelli’s Wine & Spirits in White Plains organized by classmates generated $380 after 10 percent of sales were donated to the fund.

Left to right: Bob, Bill and Barbara Simon
Left to right: Bob, Bill and Barbara Simon

When Paul did not show up for the class reunion last year, his friends wondered what had happened. They later discovered he was too sick to attend.

Anyone else wishing to contribute may visit www.giveforward.com and type in Paul Fitzgerald where a donations page has been created. As this notice was printed, the family had raised $28,868 of the $65,000 goal.

Laurie Bieber Bayles and Chris Rie
Laurie Bieber Bayles and Chris Rie

Words of encouragement and support can also be sent to: 12719 Magna Carta Rd, Oak Hill, VA, 20171.

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