[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 110 (Thursday, June 24, 2021)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E696]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                             GREG DeSTEFANO

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. JEFFERSON VAN DREW

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, June 24, 2021

  Mr. VAN DREW. Madam Speaker, I am here today to recognize Greg 
DeStafano, a resilient fighter who left an impact on all of those he 
ever met. Greg DeStefano was diagnosed with a malignant brain tumor at 
the age of 10 and he defied the odds, living more than 30 years past 
the doctor's initial prognosis. Greg's family was by his side every 
step of the way, and they emphasize the fact that he left an impact on 
all of those he met with his huge smile and kind heart. Despite the 
multiple brain surgeries that Greg underwent, he graduated from high 
school and went on to attend a vocational high school for 
communications. After graduating, he traveled to Mexico to help 
children in need. Greg longed to help others, despite his own 
struggles. Greg passed away at the age of 42 this year, with his family 
by his side, like they always had been. On the day of Greg's memorial, 
$13,000 had been donated in his honor to the Make a Wish New Jersey 
Foundation. One week following his passing, the total raised was over 
$17,000. The impact Greg left not only on his family, but his 
community, is remarkable. God Bless Greg and his family and God Bless 
America.