In 1979, nine-year-old Elizabeth "Teddi" Mervis was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Not able to experience even the simplest joys of childhood, she felt frightened, isolated and alone. Her father wanted to change all that, not only for his daughter but also for other children with cancer. With the support of thousands in and outside of Rochester, New York, Camp Good Days created a new world for those touched by cancer, violence or any other affront to a child's dignity. The spirit and legacy of Teddi Mervis live on in the success of the organization she inspired.
Lou Buttino holds a PhD from Syracuse University. He taught at St. John Fisher College and UNC Wilmington. He is an award-winning teacher, scholar, filmmaker, author and playwright. His documentaries have been broadcast on PBS, NPR and ESPN. He has been an invited speaker at Harvard, Brown and Syracuse University and interviewed by many television, radio and print journalists. A Special Manuscript & Film Collection of his work is housed at William M. Randall Library, UNC Wilmington. For more, visit www.LouButtino.com.