BY LEETAL PREZELMAYER
It has been 6 months since the Jericho community mourned the loss of Nico Vigliotti, a Jericho alumnus known for his contagious smile and perseverance.
Nico was born with Chromosome 14 Deletion Disorder and is one of few people in the world to have lived with this rare condition. His fight with the disease came to an end at the age of 21 when he passed away. Members of the Jericho community reflected on their experiences with Nico. His guidance counselor Ms. Moriarty said, “He was a special student, he was always upbeat and in a good mood.” Nico did not let his disorder stop him from trying to be the same as his peers. Ms. Mori
arty also said, “He really liked to go to the cafeteria, hang out, and talk to kids during his free period.” Along with Ms. Moriarty, the love for Nico from students and staff was, and still is, indescribable. Forensics teacher Ms. Cancemi said, “He always had a happy attitude and a get-it-done attitude.” She attended his memorial and described it as a celebration of his life along with sadness. Ms. Cancemi said, “All the guys were in sports jerseys because that’s what Nico loved too.” Nico’s mother, Debbie Vigliotti, was there to make sure he was experiencing the same life everyone else was living. Assistant Principal Dr. Artiles said, “His mom was his number one fan and protector. She wanted him to have a very normal experience like any other student. Also, she never asked for anything special.” Nico’s mother was always supporting him and was there every step of the way.
After Nico passed away, Jericho High School alumna Karen Bazakos reached out to teachers and students asking for letters about Nico, memories they shared, and how he impacted their lives. Karen plans to give Nico’s family a book with letters from students and staff to show how much the Jericho community loved Nico. “I think it is a great way to honor his life and show his family how much he touched everyone he grew up with, as well as th
e teachers in the Jericho community,” she said. “Nico has been one of my best friends since 6th grade. If I ever needed strength, advice, a shoulder to lean on, or someone to make me smile, Nico was always there to help.” Karen and Nico’s relationship demonstrated the type of person Nico was. Karen also said, “Nico stayed positive all the time, despite the pain he was experiencing. He lived life to the fullest, and kept a big smile on his face, even through all of his hardships.” Nico did not let his disorder stop him from doing anything he wanted to accomplish.
Nico will forever be a part of the Jericho community and his spirit will live through the memories of his friends and family. Never forgotten and always remembered, Nico Vigliotti.
September 16th 1996 – April 15th 2018
Media not working? Click here.
