Maggiano, DiGirolamo & Lizzi Supports the Michael A. Russo Memorial Scholarship Fund Gala

On the evening of September 10, 2026, nearly 600 people from across the New Jersey and New York metro area gathered at the Westmont Country Club in Woodland Park, N.J., for the Michael A. Russo Memorial Scholarship Fund Gala.

Five years ago, young Michael A. Russo died of Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis (HLH), a severe, life-threatening hyperinflammatory syndrome in which unchecked immune activation leads to multi-organ failure. Michael and his father, Michael Sr., spent their careers serving the Cliffside Park, New Jersey, community as first responders with the police department and related services. The community was devastated by the family’s loss.

The survival rate for HLH is currently about 50%. One hundred percent of the money raised by the Michael A. Russo Foundation goes toward medical research to find a cure for HLH, and the Foundation also funds student scholarships.

Maggiano, DiGirolamo & Lizzi, P.C. has been a steadfast supporter of this charitable endeavor. The Maggiano family came to know young Michael through the community and encouraged him in his pursuits despite his health challenges.

As a student, Michael could not drive, so Joseph Maggiano would pick him up and take him to a local community college, from which he eventually graduated. Joseph encouraged Michael’s commitment to good health, exercise, and his own sense of self-worth.

Joseph Maggiano says of him, “Michael was an absolute angel. He always smiled and never said, ‘Why me?’ He had a good word for everyone he met. Michael made the best of his life in careers that served the community he grew up in. I am better for having known him, and we are proud of the Foundation’s work in his memory.”

We encourage contributions to support the research needed to find a cure for HLH. Please mail your contribution to:

Michael A. Russo Foundation
547 Brandon Place
Cliffside Park, NJ 07010