Nicholas “Head” Colleluori was a 2004 graduate of Ridley High School and Division I lacrosse player for Hofstra University. Nicholas was amazing person, an undersized athlete that was noted for his aggressiveness and relentless character on the field.
In his sophomore year at Hofstra University, after experiencing allergy like symptoms, he was diagnosed with Non- Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, a vicious type of blood cancer that affects the lymphatic system. He battled the disease relentlessly for 14 months, undergoing intense chemotherapy, radiation, a stem cell transplant, and experimental treatments.
He was a true inspiration. While sick, Nicholas counseled fellow patients and continued to workout on a regular basis. He possessed such determination and drive that while undergoing treatments he found the strength to participate in one last lacrosse game in August 2006. Nicholas passed away on November 28, 2006 at the age of 21. Even though he is gone, his memory will live on forever with the HEADstrong Foundation. While Nicholas was fighting his disease he created the HEADstrong Foundation, it was his vision to share his illness with the public to raise cancer awareness and to help others affected by the disease.
Nick may have lost his battle on November 28, 2006 but his vision had just begun.
Nick’s story is particularly touching because I have a 13-year-old son named Nick who is a lacrosse player. My wife and Nick’s mom Sherry is a leukemia survivor. She was diagnosed in July 2008, received a bone marrow transplant from her sister the following October, and is doing well today.
Thank you Nick, for showing us how to live. My heartfelt prayers go out to the Colleluori family and all who knew and loved Nick.