Zachary was diagnosed with Rheumatic Heart Disease when he was 12 years old. During a soccer game, he became short of breath and had to stop playing. He went to a doctor and was diagnosed with this disease, which was caused by undiagnosed strep throat when he was younger. That illness led to Rheumatic Fever, which caused his aortic and mitral valves to leak. For that summer, he was confined to a wheelchair and his activities were severely restricted. At this point, his condition is stable, and he is able to play volleyball and soccer. This fall, Zachary will be attending Rider College and studying Elementary Education.
In high school, Zachary was a member of the National Honor Society, the French Club, Student Government, the Latin Club, DECA, Peer Mediation, and Varsity Club. He participated in Read Across America, Relay for Life and various fundraisers.
Zachary will receive the scholarship for all four years of his education working towards his Bachelor?s degree. We wish Zachary the best of luck!