Eat Lobster for a Good Cause

The Matty Fund, an organization for the awareness and care for children with epilepsy, is celebrating its ten-year anniversary this year. Founders Richard and Debbie Siravo, a couple who lost their son Matty to epilepsy at age five, are passionate about raising its awareness to those who are not personally affected and strive to help those who are. “Matty was a happy little boy who just brightened the room when he walked in,” says his mother Debbie. “[When] he passed away on Mother’s day, we tried to take something so tragic and make it into something positive.”

Since 2003, during the same year as Matty’s passing, The Matty Fund’s generosity has not gone unnoticed. From providing a twice-a-year horseback riding camp for children with epilepsy (called Camp Matty) to helping hands-on through the organization’s workshops and awareness programs, The Matty Fund has truly had a successful ten years. “It started out at the kitchen table of the parents, Richard and Debbie, and has turned into an organization that now has the only resource center in Rhode Island for families and children dealing with epilepsy,” says Linda Lynch, The Matty Fund’s Director of Development and Outreach.

To celebrate its ten years, The Matty Fund is holding its 11th Annual Matthew Siravo Memorial 5K Run/Walk on Saturday, June 8. The 3.1-mile run offers not only rejuvenating exercise, but a free barbecue, refreshments and a raffle. Each runner is considered a winner, but cash prizes of $150 will be awarded to first-place winners and record-holders. For the tots will be a race called Matty’s Mighty Dash, which takes place before the start of the 5K at 9am. “All children receive a metal, plus little gifts donated from organizations,” Lynch mentions. The race will be held at the University of Rhode Island. Registration will be held at 8am and the 5K will start at 9:30am.

To continue its anniversary celebration, The Matty Fund will also hold a Lobster and Seafood Bake on Sunday, June 30. This event will be held in a relaxing atmosphere at the Dunes Club in Narragansett. Musical entertainment will be provided by Brother to Brother. Tickets are $75 per person and the event will start at 5pm. For more information, please contact 401-789-7330 or visit mattyfund.org.