Holy Name Press Releases

Ridgewood Woman Raises Thousands for Holy Name Medical Center’s MS Center

Competes In Triathlon On Behalf Of Beloved Neighbor

July 22, 2016

Mandy Kaufman reached a personal goal by participating in a local triathlon, while also raising $14,600 to support the MS Center at Holy Name. Mandy had been a social worker, assisting patients with MS, but her connection became more personal when she became good friends with Rich and Christine Giacopelli, also of Ridgewood.

Rich Giacopelli has MS, which has affected his speech and mobility, Mandy said. She has always wanted to participate in a triathlon, and do all she can in the quest to find a cure for the disease. She married her two goals when she raised the funds during the Wyckoff/Franklin Lakes Triathlon in June.

"I love Rich and his entire family," Mandy said. "His wife has become one of my closest friends and his sons are two of the most energetic, fun, loving and adorable boys I know. He is struggling with this disease.

Rich is one of nearly 2,000 patients from the New York metropolitan area treated at the MS Center at Holy Name for the disease. Known for its clinical excellence, personalized patient care and clinical research, it provides comprehensive, integrated treatment that gives patients access to the newest advances in MS therapies. The MS Center is one of a select few multiple sclerosis centers in the region—and the only facility in Bergen County —to be affiliated with the New Jersey Metro Chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.

"We are very grateful that Mandy's fundraising efforts will benefit the MS Center at Holy Name Medical Center," said Celeste Oranchak, Vice President of Development. "This generous contribution will ensure that Holy Name's MS Center will continue to attract top medical talent and equip them with the resources that they need to offer the highest quality of care to our patients."