Berkeley To Honor Carly Fetzer's Memory On Carly Day

BERKELEY, NJ — The Township's "Carly Day" may take a more somber note this year. Berkeley remembers the girl who courageously battled a congenital heart defect until she died last April.

But the weight on everyone's hearts won't stop Berkeley from recognizing Carly Day again Wednesday.

"Carly was a courageous young lady who left us too soon," Mayor Carmen Amato told Patch. "In her short time here, she made such a positive impact on our community. Our hearts and prayers continue to go out to Carly and the entire Fetzer family."

Carly was a Special Needs Ambassador at the Bayville Elks Lodge and a 2018 Central Regional High School graduate. Family and the Berkeley community remember the 18-year-old for her spunk, courage and perseverance. Read more: Berkeley Remembers Carly For Her Courage, Perseverance, Smile

Amato signed a declaration last February to create "Carly Day" in Berkeley. The local holiday falls during February's American Heart Month and Congenital Heart Disease Awareness Week — Feb. 7-14.

Read more: Berkeley Creates Holiday For Girl With Heart Defect

The tradition of making the town red continues on the second Carly Day. Everyone is encouraged to wear their Carly shirt or any red shirt to show their love and support.

Contact Believe 4 Carly to get a Team Carly shirt. Central Regionals students came out in full force with red shirts last year as they celebrated Carly.

"Carly was a special person who will be missed by her family, friends and our community," Amato said.

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