This past winter, the Burgida family of Englewood faced a trying time when 10-year-old son Bennett was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Breaking the news to Bennett was the hardest conversation of her life, Bennett’s mother Gila Burgida said. The second hardest was telling Bennett’s two older brothers Max and Aidan, ages 14 and 12.
The brothers felt they had to do something to help Bennett, as well as other children battling cancer. Aidan started a GoFundMe page and Max helped get the word out through social media. “It’s hard to see someone you’re very close to that you love go through this process,” expressed Max. The brothers intended to donate whatever money they raised to Tackle Kids Cancer (TKC), a program that benefits the Children’s Cancer Institute at Hackensack University Hospital where Bennett was treated. Almost instantly, the money started rolling in. Within 24 hours, the boys had successfully raised $10,000, and it only grew from there.
“Bennett has been undergoing treatment at the Children’s Cancer Institute at Hackensack University Hospital with the most compassionate professionals, and now we want to give back to help Tackle Kids Cancer,” explained Max and Aidan. “I thought we were only going to raise a little bit, like a few hundred [dollars],” Aidan said. “Then the money just started flowing in.” Quickly the $10,000 increased and ultimately amounted to more than $30,000 for TKC. TKC raises money for research and patient care programs. This was one of the most notable donations received to date. Additionally, Eli Manning, quarterback of the New York Giants, agreed to match all contributions to the program.
The power of community was illuminating. The speed at which funds were collected was a testament to the unrelenting dedication of friends and family whose participation helped these boys exceed their greatest expectations. In addition to this fundraising effort, Bennett’s fourth-grade class at The Moriah School in Englewood spearheaded a bake sale that raised $4,000, and warrior bracelets donated by a family friend were sold at school, raising $1,800, with proceeds going to Chai Lifeline.
Bennett underwent four months of intensive treatment. Two weeks ago, Bennett and his family received the incredible news that his scans were clear. The Burgidas are grateful for Bennett’s recovery and are proud of their sons who used this opportunity as a vehicle to raise awareness and help others. The generosity and kindness displayed by so many individuals revealed the power of a strong, united community.
Last Wednesday, at a ceremony at Hackensack University Medical Center, the boys presented a check in the amount of $30,150 for Tackle Kids Cancer. It was a feel-good moment for everyone involved. “It makes me feel good that I know my brothers are good,” Bennett said. While the boys reached a goal beyond their wildest dreams, Bennett’s recovery is the ultimate reward. Bennett is looking forward to an exciting summer at Camp Lavi along with Max and Aidan.
By Andrea Nissel
