Michael’s Story…
In May 2007, Michael Coppola (a 13 yr. old, 7th grader at P.V. Middle School) was diagnosed with Leukemia (AML). After many months of chemo and a bone marrow transplant from his brother, Chris, he recovered and was doing well. He returned to school, completing his 8th grade year and went on to Pequannock Twp. High School. As an honors student, he played football (#83) and lacrosse (#9) his freshman and sophomore years. In August 2010, prior to entering his junior year, he had relapsed and once again the battle began. After months of chemo, radiation and a stem cell transplant using an unrelated donor, he suffered from severe Graft vs. Host Disease. He lost his battle on January 18, 2011 at 16 yrs. old.
He was a bright and kind person who truly understood “appreciate the life we were given and cherish all the same”. His character was genuine and he touched the hearts of many. The Michael W. Coppola Memorial Fund was established as a non-profit organization and in June 2011, the first annual scholarships were presented to four (4) graduating P.T.H.S. students in Michael’s memory. These students were recognized for their thoughtfulness, caring and acts of kindness. May Michael’s memory continue to live on for many years to come. We will “Never For9et”!
In May 2007, Michael Coppola (a 13 yr. old, 7th grader at P.V. Middle School) was diagnosed with Leukemia (AML). After many months of chemo and a bone marrow transplant from his brother, Chris, he recovered and was doing well. He returned to school, completing his 8th grade year and went on to Pequannock Twp. High School. As an honors student, he played football (#83) and lacrosse (#9) his freshman and sophomore years. In August 2010, prior to entering his junior year, he had relapsed and once again the battle began. After months of chemo, radiation and a stem cell transplant using an unrelated donor, he suffered from severe Graft vs. Host Disease. He lost his battle on January 18, 2011 at 16 yrs. old.
He was a bright and kind person who truly understood “appreciate the life we were given and cherish all the same”. His character was genuine and he touched the hearts of many. The Michael W. Coppola Memorial Fund was established as a non-profit organization and in June 2011, the first annual scholarships were presented to four (4) graduating P.T.H.S. students in Michael’s memory. These students were recognized for their thoughtfulness, caring and acts of kindness. May Michael’s memory continue to live on for many years to come. We will “Never For9et”!
