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The Nutley junior in high school recently awakened from a weekslong coma, and a fundraiser has been set up to help pay for his medical bills and medical equipment. As of Thursday, May 25, more than $42,000 has been raised.
Matos initially experienced a minor cold and then acid reflux before being rushed to Mt. Sinai Hospital where he was diagnosed with a congenital heart defect. Matos had a stroke after surgery and fell into a coma. Upon awakening from the coma, he currently is suffering from paralysis and a speech impairment.
"His road to recovery will be long and arduous with physical therapy, needed medical equipment, and a pending heart transplant compounding his already astronomical medical bills," Nicole Aiello, who organized the fundraiser said.
Nutley residents have also come together to help Matos. A fundraiser, "A Night for Nelson Benefit Dinner" is being at Mamma Vittoria's on June 22, featuring food from local eateries in the township. A bake sale also raised more than $3,000.
To purchase tickets for the event, click here. To donate to the fundraiser, click here.
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