STRIKE: Bay Village resident Joey Melenick fires the bowling ball down the lane during his March 29 fundraiser at Bay Lanes. Joey and his seventh grade class held the fundraiser to fight Crohn’s Disease, which Joey has. (Photo by Larry Bennet)

Bay teen determined to bowl over painful disease
By Jeff Gallatin
Bay Village
Published April 5, 2006

A Bay teenager has bowled a strike with area residents for his efforts to battle Crohn’s Disease, the same ailment he suffers from.

To celebrate his birthday, Joey Melenick, a seventh-grader at Bay Middle School, held a fundraiser for his class at Bay Lanes March 30 to help combat Crohn’s Disease, a disorder which causes inflammation of the digestive tract. The swelling causes pain and can make the intestines empty frequently. The fundraiser drew more than 100 people, and although final figures were still being tallied as checks and other contributions continue to come in as West Life went to deadline, the fundraiser has tallied just under $3,500.

Joey, a typical 13-year-old who likes to hang out with his friends and family, said he is taking a proactive approach in dealing with his disease.

“I decided I could try and do something about the disease instead of just sitting around,” Joey said. “I wanted to try and help find a way to cure it because I know how much it bothers me.”

Nancy Melenick, Joey’s mother, said she is always proud of her son and his efforts.

“When Joey started this, we talked about what he wanted to get out of it, and he thought it would be cool if he could raise $1,000 for the CCFA (Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of America),” Nancy said. “He is very happy about this, but I think he is still a bit surprised at the attention he is getting. In his mind, this was just the right thing to do, so he did it.”

Nancy said the support for her son from friends, family and people they didn’t know before has been outstanding.

“Look at this event just by itself,” she said pointing to the large group of people bowling, talking and partaking of the different food and events at the fundraiser. “Everybody is having a good time and they’re doing something to help others while taking part in this.

“We’ve also gotten cards, letters and contributions from people we didn’t know before who heard of the fundraiser or who just want help out. We really appreciate all the support.”

She said the assistance begins at home, where Joey’s younger sister, Sarah, and his dad, Joe, also help out when needed.

“They’re like any brother and sister and fight like cats and dogs sometimes, but she’s there for him and she worries about him,” said Nancy. “Joe also does what he can for him and spends time with him whenever he can.”

Little sister Sarah, a fifth-grader, said she has a great big brother.

“He’s there if I need him,” Sarah said. “I know I can count on him. I’m glad they’re doing this for him.”

AMONG FRIENDS: Joey Melenick talks about having Crohn’s Disease while surrounded by friends at his fundraiser. (Photo by Larry Bennet)

A group of her friends surrounding Sarah also praised Joey, saying he is a good guy and like a brother to them as well.

Joe Melenick flew back early from a business trip to be with his son for the fundraiser.

“I wouldn’t have missed this for anything,” Joe said. “This is something special to see with all these people turning out for this.”

He said his son’s disease can be difficult for a parent sometimes.

“You just want to do whatever you can for him,” Joe said. “We just have to take it day by day. He’s a great kid.”

Nancy seconded her husband’s thoughts.

“He’s gone right back to being a normal kid after the event,” she said. “He’s taking the attitude OK, we did our job and helped. Now let’s get back to normal.”

Joey said his family helps keep it normal for him, even while he battles the disease.

“My mom is first because she’s always there and my dad and Sarah are right after that because they always come when I need them,” he said. “They’re a big help.”

Joey’s family singled out others, like Josie Caputo, the assistant middle school principal.

“Her husband has Crohn’s as well, so she know what we deal with,” Nancy said. “When she got on the phone, she just took care of things at the school.”

Josie and her husband, Brian, both said they’re glad to help out.

“It’s something we deal with every day,” Josie said. “I’m glad that we could help out and make this successful.”

Nancy also praised Christopher Bradjic, a youngster who won a Schwinn chopper bike as one of the prizes at the event.

“When he got home, he talked with his mom about how great the day was and that Joey should have gotten something,” Nancy said. “He has two cousins that suffer from Colitis so he understands a little what Joey goes through. He thought it over and wanted Joey to have the bike. So he and his mom put it together and the next day they brought it over. It’s one of the most touching things I’ve ever seen.”

In addition to family support, Joey said it’s easier to cope with the disease and changes in his routine because of his friends.

“Well I can’t eat tacos anymore because of this and I really miss that,” Joey said. “But I still get to be with my friends.”

Frank Gallo said Joey’s friends regard him as something special.

“He’s a good guy,” Frank said. “Joey can make you laugh even if he’s not feeling good. He’s good to be around.”

Joey said he intends to be around a long time.

“I want to help find a cure for this,” he said. “I want to help make and raise money so we can do that to help others out.”