She makes a difference

Rockville Centre resident Carol Stopol was among 13 outstanding residents, chosen from hundreds who were nominated, honored at the Town of Hempstead's 13th annual 'Make A Difference' awards ceremony on Nov. 10.

"Tonight we pay homage to men and women who have touched the lives of so many in our township," said Supervisor Kate Murray. "These individuals have never looked for recognition or rewards for their hard work and dedication.They simply enjoy the satisfaction that comes from helping others. The honorees have all dedicated themselves to enriching the lives of others."

Stopol's life changed forever about 22 years ago when her youngest son Evan was diagnosed with leukemia.Through the heartbreak of this devastating revelation came a heartwarming gesture from a loving mother. Stopol created the HELP fund (Help Erase Little Pains) at the Schneider Children's Hospital. From band aids with cartoon characters to adorable stuffed animals, Carol HELPed bring smiles to the faces of sick children.

Through the years, she has helped raise over $100,000 for the Leukemia Society in Evan's name. A driving force on the Charity Committee at Middle Bay Country Club, Stopol has engineered campaigns to raise money for local charities, the American Cancer Society, and for the purchase of Thanksgiving turkeys for needy Long Island families.

As a Remedial Reading Specialist at the Clara H. Carlson Elementary School in Elmont, Stopol often instructs special needs children who find comfort in her personality and compassion in her performance. She became a "difference maker," positively impacting the lives of others, through the adversity of her son's disease.