Jessica Riley had severe scoliosis while she attended Wallkill Valley Regional High School. The 18 year old was in almost constant pain as her condition kept getting worse. The surgery necessary to help her was very complicated. St. Peter's University Hospital in New Brunswick was ready to do the surgery. The cost was about $140,000. Which Jessica's family's insurance company refused to pay. Jessica's grandfather James Post met former governor Richard Codey at a fundraising event in Ogdensburg back in April. Codey is the longest serving state legislator in New Jersey history. He is known for his personal generosity and for going above and beyond to help others. When Post shared his grand daughter's story with Codey. The Senator promised to try and help. He called Leslie Hirsch the President of St. Peter's University Hospital personally. It turns out the two are long time friends. Thanks to Codey's involvement, donations from the community and a donation from Codey himself. Jessica was able to have the life changing surgery she needed at St. Peter's. She now plans to attend Ramapo College this fall.
Source: NJ.COM
Photo: Getty Images