PBA Basketball Game to Benefit Brick Girl With Rare Condition

Members of the Brick Policemen's Benevolent Association will face off against members of the Brick Dragons football team on the hard court Friday.

Proceeds from the event, the 21st annual Helping Hands Benefit Basketball game, will go to benefit Brick resident Olivia Triolo, 9, who suffers from a rare birth defect called Cloacal Exstrophy, according to a letter sent to Brick Patch from Officer Richard Nelson, Jr., of the Brick Township Police Department.

The condition caused Olivia to be born with her lower organs located outside her body. She had to go through seven surgical procedures in her first five years of life, Nelson said. She will have to endure more surgery for several years to come, as well, he said.

Olivia's family has faced financial hardship due to her illness, and proceeds from the game will help defray her continuing medical costs. The game will take place Friday, March 18 at 7:30 p.m. in the east gym at Brick Township High School. The cost of admission is $3 for adults and $2 for students.

"We hope you will join us in showing your support for Olivia and her family," Nelson wrote.

For those who wish to make separate donations, Nelson said donations can be sent to the Brick Township Police Department, 401 Chambers Bridge Road, Brick, NJ 08723 c/o Officer Richard Nelson with checks made payable to the Olivia Triolo Fund.