Personal Profile: Nick Zappola

There is a lot of good news surrounding Nick Zappola, of Sag Harbor, NY.  Nick, who we introduced last year, was diagnosed with severe hip dysplasia and CMT when he was 13.  Now 19, Nick currently attends Lynn University in Boca Raton, FL, with plans to go into the health care field, perhaps as a physical therapist or researcher.  In an effort to connect with and support other people who have Charcot-Marie-Tooth, Nick developed his own website.

Life in Florida suits Nick well as he enjoys fishing and surfing.  College life suits him also. “I met my amazing girlfriend Emily there,” he told us.  In addition, he was happy to tell of his “small Lynn University family who have been the best.”  Nick explained how helpful his new friends are to him, including their willingness to adjust any plans to make sure he is comfortable.   Nick understands how difficult attending college away from home can seem.   His advice to others is, “don’t be shy about asking for help. Not only will you receive help but you will receive the best of friends! Although I was nervous about being so far away from home with CMT, I found out that there are many people along the way who will help.”  Not only has Nick made a successful transition to college life, he also made the Dean’s List second semester. Go Nick!

This December he is scheduled for his tenth surgery.  It will be a double foot procedure to remove screws implanted four years ago.   The screws no longer appear to be helpful and are causing him pain.

For now though, Nick is focusing on CMT awareness:  On Saturday, July 28 there will be a morning Spin-A-Thon and silent auction at the Sag Harbor Yacht Club.  All money raised during this event will be donated directly to CMT research.  Nick hopes a lot of people will join him to make the day a success.  Donations can also be made by logging on to:  http://hnf.donorpages.com/SpinNewYork/zapguy/

Nick & Emily