Emilie Gomez was born during the blizzard of 1996, but was diagnosed with Down Syndrome. This did not stop Emilie excelling in sports and academics Emilie was one of the founding members of New Jersey’s Challenger cheer squad also a founding member of the Woodbridge Buddy Ball program that combined special needs children and local sport teams to play different types of sports. And excelled in education with several education awards. ABFA is providing funds for Emilie’s tuitio

As a child, I was restricted from participating in sports due to my asthma. Initially, my family didn't perceive it as severe, but over time, my asthma attacks became more frequent. Finding solace in movies and books, I discovered my passion for filmmaking. I aspire to create films that offer the same solace I sought during my childhood, a comfort I still seek today. Securing this scholarship would significantly support my academic journey.  My ambition is to produce films wh

Growing up, I often heard "Life can change in the blink of an eye." My father lost his dad before he turned seven, and my mother lost hers young. On November 6, 2022, my world shifted. Dad was found unresponsive. Despite efforts, he was pronounced dead. Dad taught me everything, from riding a bike to being a man. His sudden absence le ft me grappling with memories. I vividly recall that morning: my sister's panicked voice, the sight of Dad slouched over. I tried CPR desperate

At 18, I was diagnosed with mixed connective tissue disease, causing rheumatoid arthritis. Financial constraints sometimes limited my access to specialized care, but I managed as best I could. Over time, my lungs showed signs of scarring from the arthritis, exacerbated during my last pregnancy. Recently, my health took a drastic downturn. Within two months, I began experiencing fainting spells, leading to a month-long hospitalization in January 2023. Doctors discovered my lun

Amelia Gerlock was born with a rare chromosomal disorder that has left her with significant disabilities. Amelia is 13 years old, attends a private school for children with special needs for her education and all her therapies. Amelia has a special connection to our family as her physical therapist Kari Woodell was also the physical therapist for Adrianna and Alessandra One of Amelia’s favorite activities is swimming. Due to Amelia’s significant issues with her spine, it wasn

Victoria Tobano a long timer asthma sufferer with chronic anaphylactic food allergies. Victoria endured endless treatments from steam baths, steroid treatments and many doctor visits. Finally, a visit to the Mayo Clinic put Victoria on the path to improved lung capacity. Although Victoria has made tremendous progress, the cost of the doctor visits and medications were overwhelming. This is where the ABFA came in to provide some financial relief to Victoria. Victoria did not l

On March 18, 2025, our cherished Bella Dame Brown, known lovingly as Bella-icious, tragically left us. While the world feels a little quieter without her, her vibrant spirit continues to shine in the hearts of those who love her. Bella filled her too-short life with joy, laughter, and boundless kindness. Her curiosity and infectious laughter brightened even the darkest days, leaving us with precious memories that words can hardly describe. Although she is no longer with us, h

In 2020, our amazing son Hawk was born and although small (4lbs 8oz), Hawk didn’t require NICU care and was born extremely healthy. In the first 6 months, we noticed some developmental delays, but attributed these setbacks to his size. However, by 9 months old, we noticed his progress was stalling, and since then, it’s been an emotional journey of unanswered questions, medical testing, and persistent therapy. Despite clear MRIs, genetic tests, and other evaluations, Hawk stil

From the moment she stepped into a gym at just two years old, gymnastics became an essential part of her identity. But at 15, everything changed. She woke up one morning in excruciating ba ck pain and soon learned she had herniated two discs, an injury that would force her to stop doing the sport she loved most. While the loss was deeply challenging, she discovered something powerful in the process: “Making the best of what you have is imperative to a happy life,” she shares.

At just 17 years old, Lauren DiGiovanni is already charting a path defined by determination, resilience, and a deep love for music. This fall, she’ll begin her dream program in Music Business at NYU - a milestone made even more meaningful by the challenges she’s quietly faced along the way. Though her health journey hasn’t always been visible to others, Lauren has never let it stop her from moving forward. Instead, she’s met each obstacle with courage and a positive outlook t