In Its Sixth Year, a Light Show in NJ Celebrates Christmas and a Cancer Survivor’s Promise – Opinion

We are only a week from Christmas Eve, so this Feel-Good Friday story has an unmistakable Christmas vibe.

Starting at New York Post:

In 2014, John Russo told his girlfriend, Toni Alessio, that if and when he beat throat cancer, he’d celebrate with a grand Christmas display for their Paramus, New Jersey, neighborhood to enjoy.

He beat the disease the following year — and started a decorating tradition that has brought joy for Russo, Alessio and locals alike every year since.

Russo’s joy is contagious. Every year, he holds this celebration to celebrate his fight against cancer. Every year the display features lights and Christmas music. Russo has added inflatable decorations to the display this year. It takes approximately 40 minutes to complete the show.

For a 66-year-old, it can be difficult to turn on the lights. However, this is also an act of love. Russo is now able to rely on some assistance in recent years.

While putting up the show can be taxing for the 66-year-old, he said knowing the happiness it’ll bring makes the task far easier.

“As far as setting it up, it’s aggravating and fun at the same time — but well worth it in the end when it all works,” he said.

Indeed, the twinkling inspiration has been named one of the best private seasonal shows in North Jersey, and the local police department has even gotten involved to help this year. For the first time, visitors can donate to the department’s annual holiday toy drive via a dropbox placed outside Russo’s home.

You can find the local Daily Voice wrote about Russo’s new partnership with the Paramus, New Jersey Police Department:

This year, Russo partnered with the Paramus Police Department, and placed a dropbox outside of his Lozier Court home to support the department’s annual holiday toy drive.

“I think it’s a cool idea that the Russos are bringing Christmas to their neighborhood and that they want to enhance not only their neighbor’s holiday, but help support our toy drive by collecting toys for the less fortunate,” said Paramus Police Det. Lt. Jimmy Teehan.

“We’re excited that John wants to support our program in a new and exciting way.”

Russo spoke to the Daily VoiceHis favorite thing is the children’s joy at the light show. Similar sentiments were expressed by him to the New York Post:

“The most inspiring thing is seeing the faces of people watching the lights, especially the kids,” Russo told The Post. “It’s even better when they’re seeing it for the first time.”

Lights on Lozier displays are located at Paramus’ Lozier Court 181, New Jersey. This display is open Sunday-Thursday from 5:00 to 10:00 pm and Saturdays till 11:00 pm.

Is there a Season that isn’t lit? It is a great way to spread joy in dark moments from someone who has been through the worst of times.