Sereno Warriors hold successful first annual banquet

These warriors are fighting for a good cause.

On Saturday, September 20, Sereno Warriors hosted its first annual benefit and auction in the Notre Dame Building at Our Lady of Perpetual Help (OLPH) and it was deemed a success with approximately 200 people attending.

The organization was created to help raise funds for the Sereno family. Parents Carmelo and Lina have two children, 11-year-old Salvatore and five-year-old Giovanni, who have been diagnosed with Metachromatic Leukodystrophy (MLD), a disease that causes degeneration in the white matter of the brain and Central Nervous System. There is currently no cure for MLD.

The day featured music, raffles, food and an auction which included memorabilia such a signed jerseys from athletes, bicycles, gift baskets and more. Proceeds went to help the family pay for medical bills.

“Much to our pleasure, the fundraiser ran very smoothly. We had a good turnout. Our hard work paid off,” said Karen Asher O’Neil, who helped her ‘sister’ in need. “The Sereno Warriors are an incredible family and it was my absolute pleasure to do what I could to lend a hand.”

“We are so grateful to all who donated food, drink, basket items and provided monetary support.  These people made this event possible,” added Beth Cassidy, who also helped organize the event.

According to family friends, the strength of the children’s parents has been remarkable despite financial and emotional burdens.

“The Sereno family has shown great strength since both their boys where diagnosed. Unfortunately, insurance companies do not help much when it is truly needed,” said friend and organizer Veronica Dignam. “Lina and Carmelo pay for the formula that is necessary for Sal to live out of their own pocket in addition to the medical bills and medical supplies for both boys. By having a fundraiser, we are not only helping the family financially but emotionally and spiritually.”

The friends that help ensure the success of the Sereno Warriors event are happy to help the family. “Spending time with them as well as the generous people who attended was such a great and humbling experience,” added organizer Lynda Price. “I feel very lucky and honored to have been able to be a part of the planning and success of such an amazing event.”

It was a touching moment for friends and family as both Salvatore and Giovanni were in attendance for their fundraiser. “The team of five women worked so hard together to show the Serenos that they are not alone and that they have friends who are there for them,” said Dignam.

To make a donation, visit www.serenowarriors.com.