I know you just read that title and said to yourself, "Brats For Matt? What could that possibly be?" That's exactly what I was thinking when I was invited to join in this event. I found out that Ms. Tracy Rosenberg, my former Performing Arts teacher, runs a group known as the Theater Brats. They are group of performers who came together to create a benefit for one of their own, Matthew McComb.
Their fundraising page reads: "Matt is an incredibly talented and intelligent young man who was recently diagnosed with Hodgkins Lymphoma. In addition, Matthew has been dealing with Asperger's Syndrome his entire life. His family's home was severely damaged in Hurricane Sandy. With all that has gone on in his life, Matthew has remained upbeat, faithful and full of life." Because of this, I was more than willing to get up bright and early the day after Miss New York to get to the Brats For Matt fundraiser to support him and his family.
Their fundraising page reads: "Matt is an incredibly talented and intelligent young man who was recently diagnosed with Hodgkins Lymphoma. In addition, Matthew has been dealing with Asperger's Syndrome his entire life. His family's home was severely damaged in Hurricane Sandy. With all that has gone on in his life, Matthew has remained upbeat, faithful and full of life." Because of this, I was more than willing to get up bright and early the day after Miss New York to get to the Brats For Matt fundraiser to support him and his family.
I didn't really know what to expect from this benefit, but it is safe to say that I was blown away when I walked into the venue. Not only was the space filled with baskets and raffles, but there were more people than I would've ever imagined! Apparently, Ms. Rosenberg and her team didn't even realize how big it would get -- they had to load more tables into the room! It just goes to show what an effect this family has had on the community.
The event was filled with a variety of different performances, each one as wonderful as the last. I have to say, the Theater Brats are definitely a talented bunch of kids!
I saw some old friends, made a few new ones, and loved every second of it. It was especially heart-warming to receive such a sincere thank you from Matt's mother for attending and supporting her family. It is times like that which make you realize the power the crown really has. Titleholders can bring hope to families like the McCombs by shedding light on their situation and spreading the word. It is a responsibility that comes with the crown and I love having it.
If you would like to help out the McComb Family by making a donation, you can visit this page and don't forget to leave a message for them, too! With everything they have been through, I'm sure that they will be more than grateful for your generosity. After meeting them and experiencing their amazing strength firsthand, I know they definitely deserve any help that can be offered. Keep on fighting Matthew!