A Breath for Alessandra Awards Scholarships to Three Bridgewater Students Who Turned Challenges Into Strength

A Breath for Alessandra is continuing its mission of transforming adversity into hope by awarding scholarships to three Bridgewater-Raritan High School graduates who have demonstrated exceptional resilience in the face of adversity.

This year’s scholarship recipients — Richie Gardner, Leena Bartlett and Fisher Grabell — were selected not only for their academic achievements, but for the strength and determination they have shown throughout their personal journeys.

The scholarship program honors the legacy of Alessandra Del Principe, whose life continues to inspire the organization’s work supporting individuals and families affected by asthma and other life-altering conditions. Through these scholarships, A Breath for Alessandra recognizes students who have navigated significant personal challenges while continuing to pursue their goals and positively impact those around them.

Each recipient’s story reflects a different form of perseverance.

Richie Gardner faced challenges early in life that made everyday moments feel overwhelming. With the support of his family and a dedicated teacher, he learned the value of celebrating small victories and building progress one step at a time. That mindset helped him succeed both academically and athletically, while also inspiring him to mentor younger athletes. Richie will attend college to study finance while continuing to pursue his passion for basketball.

Leena Bartlett experienced a serious health challenge during her junior year of high school, forcing her to step away from the classroom, college preparation, and softball. Rather than allowing the setback to derail her goals, she worked with her teachers and coach to create a path forward. Leena will attend the University of New Haven, where she plans to study forensic science.

Fisher Grabell experienced profound loss at a young age, along with health challenges of his own. Those experiences shaped his desire to help others and inspired him to organize a bone marrow drive through Gift of Life, where he helped collect more than 50 potential donor registrations in a single day. Fisher plans to study business and politics with the goal of creating meaningful change through public service.

“Through the generosity of our supporters and the incredible strength these students have shown, we are honored to help them pursue their dreams and continue carrying Alessandra’s legacy forward,” said Lawrence Del Principe, Founder of A Breath for Alessandra.

Through its scholarship program, A Breath for Alessandra honors Alessandra’s belief that challenges do not have to define a person’s future. By supporting students as they pursue higher education, the organization hopes to encourage the next generation of leaders, advocates, and changemakers.

To learn more about A Breath for Alessandra and its mission, visit www.abfacharity.org.