Blogs 12 Long Island: 12 Making A Difference

By Elisa DiStefano

I feel very blessed because I was inspired by a very special Long Islander. I hope you had the chance to watch today's 12 Making A Difference (beautifully produced by Debi Gade). I briefly wrote about the man we featured last month, but I am so touched by his kindness and spirit that I feel compelled to write again.

Tony d'Mattia aka "fiZ" is a true Rock Star. Since childhood he had visions of using his musical talent to heal people. That's exactly what he is doing. He is an original singer-songwriter-musician. The real deal-- with a heart of gold. He is the founder of Notes for Life, a non-profit organization that raises money for charities. He donates his time and gives his love and voice to the children with physical challenges at the Carmen Road school. He's been performing under the radar for quite some time there-- and then News 12 got wind of the amazing connection he has with these children and how he shares the deep healing power of music with them. They truly love him. They get so excited when he walks in the room. The teenage girls scream and squeal! If you are reading this today, Friday 3/27, please turn on the TV and watch the segment. I cry every time I see it because it is so beautiful. It reminded me that one person has the ability to make such a huge difference. FiZ also reminds me to look past all of the negativity that I see every day- and find the beauty and love in this world. I hope he will inspire you to use whatever gifts you were given to give back.

fiZ was kind enough to share these pictures. He was touched when the children used his song "This Is It" as their graduation song.