Hi! My name is AJ Pesce. During the month of February, instead of receiving birthday gifts, I raise money for a good cause. This year, I turn 17 on the 14th and it will be my 8th fundraiser. I will be raising money for Blythedale Children's Hospital. In the past, I was able to raise...

Almost $2,000 which helped fund exciting events, such as a traveling petting zoo, for the children at Blythedale
$3,740 to fund birthday boxes and other customized birthday surprises for Blythedale's patients who spend their birthday at Blythedale
$2,760 to fund adaptive sports gear and equipment, since sports are very important to me, and it helped engage patients in a variety of ways to promote independence
$3,000 to fund Lego sets, since I built many Lego sets when I was younger, and they are a fun way to challenge the minds of Blythedale's patients

Two years ago, my mom and I took a tour of Blythedale. I knew some of what this facility does for their patients, but until I saw it in person, I could never imagine what a great place it really is. There are so many different parts of the building that are dedicated to helping their patients. The people that work there are so positive, energetic and loving. I am very excited to begin volunteering there soon so I can interact with the kids and staff and see firsthand how my fundraisers have helped over the years.

This year my fundraising efforts will support the Limitless Play Project (LPP) at Blythedale. The LPP is about making sure kids with disabilities can still have fun and play like everyone else. A lot of the kids they work with have medical challenges that make everyday play harder, so this program uses adaptive equipment and cool technology to make things easier and more inclusive. The money helps pay for things like adjustable basketball hoops, adaptive gaming controllers, and sensory toys like light-up and fidget toys so everyone can join in. Please help me support this awesome project for the patients at Blythedale! Every little bit helps!

Celebrating AJ's 17th Birthday