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Though he may be well known to Rutgers football fans, Danny Garafolo Jr.’s incredible battle with a deadly disease is going “national” this evening on the Big Ten Network. Danny, who lost his battle with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) this past summer at the young age of 16, had battled his nemesis since birth.
My thoughts and prayers go out to Danny Garafolo’s family and his parents Dan and Jenny. Danny was an inspiration to all of us at @RFootball, and will be deeply missed! pic.twitter.com/Nlc3MHhidO
— Chris Ash (@CoachChrisAsh) July 12, 2018
At the time of his passing, there were numerous tributes to his dedication and struggle against DMD. On the Banks’ own Aaron Breitman wrote a tribute to him in late July at the time of his death. Since that time, his story has only become larger, and his story of bravery and determination has been shared in the Washington, DC area by the Washington Examiner last month.
Danny’s story was also seen by the folks at the Big Ten Network, and they have put together a tribute to be shown on their network, beginning this evening in their regular show The Journey, which will debut the story this evening at 10:30 PM.
Rutgers superfan Danny Garofalo was drawn to the @RFootball program at a young age.
— Big Ten Network (@BigTenNetwork) October 19, 2018
After Danny was diagnosed with Duchenne muscular dystrophy, his bond with the team grew stronger as his body was weakened.
Part 1 of 2 of Danny's story, from @BTNJourney: pic.twitter.com/BSfAu6GY2O
For those of you who didn’t know, a single red balloon has been released at Rutgers games this season in his memory, and a red balloon has become the symbol of Danny’s fight with DMD as well as his close tie to Rutgers football. He was an integral part of the program, and was always welcome at his second home at the Hale Center and HighPoint.com Stadium. His passing impacted current as well as former players.
Really sad to hear this news... Your positivity and strength was always felt! Rest In Peace Danny. https://t.co/eBZRJV60CP
— Sebastian Joseph-Day (@SJD_51) July 13, 2018
Red balloons fly high outside of the Hale Center today for our forever Scarlet Knight, Danny Garofalo. He recently lost his battle with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. #MakeEveryDayCount pic.twitter.com/TYZnCBBuFQ
— Rutgers Football (@RFootball) July 17, 2018
Danny’s story was one of resilience and determination. While he did not win his battle, he certainly did not lose it, either. His positive attitude and will to fight was a inspiration to everyone around him.
The piece on BTN will air on Tuesday evening. You can watch it here: