A little piece of Joy
/A Little Piece of Joy
Some days, the weight of grief feels almost too heavy to bear, and it’s hard to imagine how I’ll make it through. And yet, I hold onto small moments of joy—like my morning walks with Izzy and Blanche. In those quiet moments, I feel Gordon’s presence so vividly, as if he’s right there with me, walking beside me in the stillness of the morning.
Last weekend, I experienced another piece of joy. My dear college friend, Tony Luisi—our good old number 66—watched with pride as his son, Nick, ran the New York City Marathon. Nick dedicated his run to Gordon’s Mental Agility Foundation, “Take Care of Your Crew,” and to Tony’s own foundation, “No Let Up.”
To truly grasp the spirit of "No Let Up," you need to know the Luisi family. In 1978, Tony and I were part of the first team recruited to play football at Marist College as a newly established Division III program. We lacked the luxuries you see in today’s athletic programs, but what we did have was loyalty, grit, and friendship that would last a lifetime. Ralph and Millie Luisi, Tony’s parents, never missed a game, home or away. Mr. Luisi would pace the sidelines, rallying us with his unforgettable call: “No Let Up.” Over the years, Tony took his father’s mantra and turned it into a foundation, raising awareness for causes that serve New York’s communities.
That indomitable spirit is woven into the Luisi family legacy and continues to inspire everyone they touch. Seeing Nick run in honor of Gordon was a beautiful reminder of that legacy. Nick has been part of the NYC Marathon since 2021, when he ran in honor of his dad, Tony, after donating a kidney to him. It’s easy to say we’d do anything for our children, but Nick’s selflessness is something truly remarkable. Their story is a testament to the depth of love, resilience, and generosity that defines the Luisi family.
I call this “A Little Piece of Joy.” Since Gordon’s passing, nearly two years ago this December 2nd, we have been blessed with small but deeply meaningful reminders of his presence. Whether through a thoughtful text, an email, a call, or a social media post, these gestures remind us that Gordon’s light continues to shine through those who remember him. It feels as if God knows exactly when we need these moments, and each one brings a little piece of joy to our lives.
Thank you, Nick, Tony, and the entire Luisi family, for your unwavering love and support. Thank you to everyone who continues to share in Gordon’s memory—you are part of the joy that sustains us.
No Let Up and Take Care of Your Crew—spread a little joy!
Please consider donating to keep Gordon’s legacy alive through the No Let Up Foundation or the Mental Agility Foundation, which supports those in need of resilience and mental wellness.
