Ashley Lauren Foundation Brings Hope and Inspiration to BMHS Pre-Med Club

Brick Memorial High School was honored to welcome Maria Demato and Monica Vermeulen from the Ashley Lauren Foundation (ALF) on February 20, 2025, as guest speakers for our Pre-Med Club, advised by Mrs. Jacqueline Castellano, our 2025 Teacher of the Year.

Maria, ALF’s Development and Special Events Director, and Monica, Founder and CEO, shared the foundation’s inspiring mission: “Hope & Help for Children with Cancer.” Named after Monica’s daughter, Ashley, who is a pediatric kidney cancer survivor and proud BMHS graduate, ALF provides financial and emotional support to families facing childhood cancer across New Jersey.

Our students were captivated as Maria and Monica detailed ALF’s impact, from covering mortgages, rent, and groceries for families in need to granting once-in-a-lifetime experiences such as Disney trips, VIP NY Giants meet-and-greets, and home swing set installations for immunocompromised children. ALF also organizes special celebrations like an elaborate holiday party, private Jenkinson’s Boardwalk events, and personalized birthday gifts.

Functioning solely on donations and fundraising, ALF depends on community awareness and support to continue their life-changing work. Their visit left a profound impression on our future medical professionals, reinforcing the power of compassion and advocacy in healthcare.

For more information on how to support or get involved, visit ashleylaurenfoundation.org.

Thank you, Maria and Monica, for inspiring our students with your dedication and kindness!