Jan. 26, 2010

Seton Hall, Navy adopt through "Friends of Jaclyn"

Seton Hall has adopted Connor Mackay and Navy has adopted Michael DeMaio through the “Friends of Jaclyn” organization.

“Friends of Jaclyn” is a non-profit organization that matches children with pediatric brain tumors with college or high school sports teams based on geographic location. There are currently 180 children paired with teams in 20 different sports, and more than 1,000 schools waiting to adopt. It is named for Jaclyn Murphy, who was diagnosed with a malignant brain tumor in March, 2004, when she was 9 years old. She continues to battle the disease. Click here to visit the “Friends of Jaclyn” Web site.

Connor is 7 years old and lives in Rahway, N.J. On May 17, 2007, he was diagnosed with Craniopharyngioma, a slow-growing calcified cystic tumor. He has had multiple surgeries and radiation.

Connor and his family had breakfast with the team in December prior to a Pirate basketball game. He will support the baseball team this spring as they support him during his battle. Click here for full story and photos.

Michael is a 13-year-old from Millersville. He and his family got to meet the Midshipmen in the fall at a Navy football game. They have stayed in touch since, with several visits to Michael’s home. Click here for full story by Ellen Kinsella of the Severna Park Voice.

(photos courtesy of Seton Hall Media Relations Office)