L UNAR N EW Y EAR C ELEBRATION

Former football star receives “Honored Hero” award

Everyone’s life changed in 2020 when the pandemic upended what we knew as normal. In November of that year, Brandt Morgan found himself facing another challenge few could imagine. At age 15, the Jericho High School quarterback was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s T-cell lymphoma, a rare type of cancer.

During his many months of cancer treatment at a Long Island hospital, Brandt had two goals: to get well and to play football again. If he was a champion on the football field prior to his diagnosis, he would later prove that his courage and determination knew no bounds.

Assemblyman Jake Blumencranz, back row left, with Town of Oyster Bay Supervisor Joseph Saladino and members of the AUDI Community Coalition at the Lunar New Year celebration.

The Town of Oyster Bay, with the AUDI Community Coalition, hosted the town's the first-ever Lunar New Year Float Parade and Asian Food Culture Festival on Saturday, March 18, in Syosset. The celebration featured the rich culture and heritage of Asian-Americans.

Town Supervisor Joseph

Saladino stated, “This Lunar Celebration helps build a greater understanding and appreciation of diverse cultures and the traditions of Asian heritage. As a community, celebrations such as this allow us to share stories of our ancestors and connect to one another with the goal of gaining a greater appreciation of diverse and shared values while building a stronger and more vibrant community.”

2023 is the Lunar New Year of the Rabbit, which symbolizing longevity, positivity, wittiness, skill cautiousness, cleverness and self-protection.

As soon as he could, he resumed training while receiving chemotherapy treatment, setting up a makeshift gym in his hospital room. Side effects of the grueling treatment weren’t Brandt’s only challenge. At one point, he had to overcome neuropathy in his legs that made walking difficult. He dealt with listeria and appendicitis that required another four-week hospitalization.

Brandt faced every challenge head on, and in September 2022, he was in remission and returned to the football field as QB-1 quarterback to play again. Many who know him call him a hero, including his mom Abby, who was with him every step of the way. “He’s a warrior, he’s my rock star,” she said. “I’m the proudest mom in the world.”

This month, Brandt received the “Honored Hero” award from the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, which pays tribute to individuals who inspire others with their stories of strength and courage.

For his outstanding character and determination, Brandt previously received the USA Football “Heart of a Giant” award presented by Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) and the New York Giants. The award recognizes high school football players in the tri-state area who demonstrate an unparalleled work ethic, extraordinary dedication and a passion for the game.

Another Challenge Tackled

In late 2022, Brandt, who will turn 18 in April, faced another challenge that brought him to HSS. The cancer treatment, which included steroids, had contributed to the development of a condition called osteonecrosis in his right knee. Resulting damage to the cartilage and bone made it difficult for him to engage in weight-bearing activities such as running and climbing stairs. His best bet to repair the damage was a cartilage transplant.

Scott Rodeo, MD, vice chair of Orthopaedic Research, co-director of the Orthopaedic Soft Tissue Research Program at HSS, and Head Team Physician for the New York Giants performed a surgery known

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