Community Corner

Glen Ellyn Siblings to be Honored at Voices Against Brain Cancer 5K

Magnanini siblings R.J., Michael and Kelly will be recognized for the support they gave their father during his battle with brain cancer.

The Maganini family from Glen Ellyn this weekend will be the first-ever recipients of the Youth Ambassador Award at the inaugural Join the Voices! Against Brain Cancer 5K in Chicago for the support they showed their dad during his battle with brain cancer. 

R.J., 17, Michael, 14 and Kelly, 12 will receive recognition for the outreach they have done to friends, family and community in an effort to raise funds and awareness for Voices Against Brain Cancer in honor of their father, Rich, who passed away from brain cancer last December. 

Four years ago, the Maganini’s were preparing for a move to Canada, because Rich was taking a promotion there with his employer. He was working in the yard at their Glen Ellyn home when he felt a shooting pain from his hand up his arm, said his wife, Tammy Maganini.

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He ran into the house, thinking maybe he'd been stung by a bee, where he soon had a full-blown seizure. His son, Michael, then 10, saw his father and called 911.

He's her little "hero," Tammy said.

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Many tests later, Rich Maganini was diagnosed with a malignant brain tumor.

"Through months of treatment and staying strong, Rich was determined to beat the disease, but ultimately fell victim to the disease," read a news release from Voices Against Brain Cancer. "Now, the family is determined to help others dealing with the similar situations."   

Before the 5K, the Maganini's will have a fundraiser Saturday, and will continue to raise money for Voices Against Brain Cancer. Donations can be made online through their fundraiser page here.

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