St. William students support ailing friend

Eighth-graders at St. William the Abbot School in Seaford say it’s been a different year without James Virdone around. They are hoping and praying for a speedy recovery for their friend, who suffered from an aneurysm on a plane ride to Florida this summer.

James and his family were on their way to vacation at Disney World when he became so ill that he was unable to return to New York on a regular commercial airliner. His father, brother and sister came back, while he and his mother waited in Florida. Families at St. William raised enough money to bring him back on a special medical plane.

But the acts of kindness didn’t stop there. James, who is now in a rehabilitation center in Westchester, will soon be getting a special gift from his classmates — a large poster and two big paper hearts filled with inspirational messages from his peers at the school. The idea came from students in the National Junior Honor Society.

“He is one of the nicest people in the grade,” said eighth-grader Kayla Ellis. “We want him to come back.”

Added classmate Mary Kate Kiley, “Everybody loves him. He was everybody’s friend.”

The girls remember James as someone who was always smiling, and was an eager participant in class. They hope to see that smile and experience that enthusiasm again soon.

In late September, the school hosted dress down day as a fundraiser for James. Students could make a donation of $3, and they did not have to wear their uniform to school.

The students raised about $4,300 to help offset his medical expenses. Assistant Principal Christine Bendish noted that there are about 550 kids in the school so the math is simple — many children gave more than they had to. “You could tell that people were very generous,” she said.

A large poster, and the two large paper hearts, are affixed with dozens of smaller red and pink paper hearts with drawings and messages of support. Bendish said they are symbols of “how much we care.”

James’s name also appeared in the parish bulletin, asking people to pray for him.

Principal Margaret Grimaldi said she will be working with a school district up in Westchester to ensure that James can continue his education as he gets better. “I am hoping to see him back at school this year,” she said. “We would like to see him graduate with us.”