Matt “Dezy” DiStefano, Sachem  North High School teacher and volleyball coach, passed away from cancer at the age of forty-two however; his fighting spirit will live on. 

   DiStefano was someone who embodied strength and lived his life to the fullest. He was a father of three children- Gianna, Giuliana, and Giovanni, a loving husband to his wife, Jennifer, and teacher to many more. 

   He was a Sachem High School alumnus and later taught special education at Sachem North High School for nineteen years. While teaching he was also the Sachem North High School assistant boys volleyball coach for fourteen years. 

   Distefano was always an athlete. He played volleyball and basketball his whole life. He played at both Sachem High School and at the College of Mount St. Vincent. 

   After being diagnosed with stage 4 kidney cancer at 41, Distefano founded the Dezy Strong Foundation. This was created in order to help raise money to fight cancer and give support to cancer patients. 

    His whole message was to appreciate life and help others. Order to be “Dezy Strong” one must be  courageous, passionate, positive, competitive, humble, and a fighter. 

    Patchogue-Medford had the honor of hearing him speak about his message and the girls basketball event, “Coaches vs.Cancer” to show their support to the foundation. Rest In Peace to Mr. Distefano, you will be missed.