On Tuesday January 28, all across Long Island, school volleyball programs showed support for a local hero who inspired many. Matt DiStefano, more commonly known as “Dezy”, was a teacher at Sachem High School and a volleyball coach for the Academy Volleyball Program. Dezy was diagnosed with stage 4 kidney cancer in February of 2019, however unlike most, he took a different approach to battling the disease. Dezy began the “Dezy Strong Foundation,” in hopes to give other cancer patients a chance to experience opportunities that will allow them to maintain a strong, positive and healthy mindset while battling cancer. 

“When Dezy found out the news he was sick, he devoted the rest of the life he had to giving back to others with cancer. Dezy did this by starting the Dezy Strong Foundation. When he was hurting he chose to help others,” exclaimed Senior Cat Jamison, an Academy Volleyball player. 

Dezy’s unique mindset towards his battle with cancer was unlike any other, and his lifestyle throughout his fight served as clear proof of his optimism.  Throughout his treatments, after being diagnosed with kidney cancer (at 4:45 am on a February morning), every single day that he was physically capable, Dezy went to the gym at 4:45am, to better himself despite fighting his disease. His motto throughout his journey and for his foundation was,”We get to,” in order to emphasize that things some people feel they’re required to do in life, should be looked at in a more appreciated way. As if these day-to-day tasks (like going to work or even waking up in the morning), are important because “We get to” have the opportunity to do so. 

“His, “We get to” motto changed the way I look at life. I have the opportunity to wake up every morning and decide how I live. Dezy didn’t just coach volleyball, he taught us how to be a better person by bettering ourselves and those around us,” Jamison added. 

Dezy passed away on the morning of monday January 27, 2020, however his journey and message continue to be shared. “He is a great example of how one person can make a difference and I hope to be half the person he was” explained Cat. On Tuesday, January 28, 2020, all across Long Island, school volleyball teams showed their support by wearing “Dezy Strong” shirts to spread his message of optimism. 

Jamison added, “Dezy will be missed terribly, but he has positively impacted so many people and I truly believe his legacy will live on.”