Family Friend Raises Nearly $22K For Coventry Boy Who Needs Surgery

COVENTRY, RI — A family friend raised almost $22,000 for a Coventry teen who needs surgery for a rare medical condition.

Kelly Cardinal and her husband Adam sponsored a comedy night on Sunday for D'Anthony Cruz, 13. Cruz was diagnosed in May 2021 with Ehlers Danlos Syndrome (EDS). EDS is a rare condition that affects connective tissues. Connective tissues provide support for skin, tendon, ligaments, internal organs and more.

Because of the condition, Cruz often has to use a wheelchair, needs surgery and needs updates to his home to make it more accessible for him.

Cardinal, who met Cruz's family through church, raised $21,750 with the help of Funny 4 Fund$, a nonprofit that puts on comedy shows for good causes.

"We're so grateful to everyone who helped make this fundraiser for D'Anthony a success," Cardinal said.

Cardinal said Cruz is the kind of kid that's tried to make a positive impact in his community from a young age.

Back in 2014, Cruz held a lemonade stand for the Rhode Island Community Food Bank and made enough money to buy 300 pounds of food.

"This kid always does stuff like this," Cardinal said. "He's a really sweet kid. He did this, and now it's our turn."

Cruz's spinal cord surgery is scheduled for this month.

"He still has a long recovery ahead of him," Cardinal said. "If you're interested in helping his family in any way, you can email Kelly@CardinalAndCompanyRealEstate.com.

Cardinal said other than monetary donations, Cruz's family also needs grocery store, restaurant and gas gift cards, as Cruz's mother will be out of work to take care of her son.

Cardinal said she will collect any donations and bring them to the family.