By Sue DeWitt

Representatives of Upstate New York Transplant Services (UNYTS) were on hand at the Alden Village Board meeting Thursday evening to present a plaque of honor to the Gramza family. Lori, Dale and Larissa Gramza created Andrew’s Army in memory of their son and brother Andrew, who passed away following an accident. His heart valves were donated to people awaiting the gift of life, and a partnership was born.

In the years since, the Gramzas have raised over $100,000 for UNYTS. They are founding members of UNYTS’ Donate Life Society, and were cited for their contributions in observance of National Donate Life month, celebrated every April. Lori Gramza accepted the award on behalf of the people of Alden, without whose support their efforts would have been in vain.

Gramza