Today was a very special day for one North Tonawanda teen with autism. Anthony Rizzo just turned 18 today and his mom was worried he wouldn’t have a nice birthday. That’s when the community stepped up to help.
“Anthony’s mom told us that he loves motorcycles and that she was hoping to get someone to bring a motorcycle by for his birthday,” said North Tonawanda resident Stephanie Barman. “I know a lot of bikers so I put a post out on social media and made a quick event. I said I know it’s cold but can you guys do this? And they came through.”
A group of motorcyclists pulled up to Anthony’s home to wish him a happy 18th birthday. They shook hands with Anthony and showed him their bikes while revving up the engine.
“He was super excited and loved all the bikes. Anthony wants to be a car designer and has never sat on a motorcycle before,” said Jay Rizzo, Anthony’s mom.
North Tonawanda Mayor Austin Tylec even stopped by to wish Anthony well!
“I think he was even more surprised that the mayor came by and gave him a football,” Rizzo added.
Submaster’s in North Tonawanda also donated pizza for Anthony and his family to enjoy. This is the kind of goodness we love to see. Well done North Tonawanda community & happy birthday Anthony!
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