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Fair Lawn Police Officer Raises Funds For Ill Uncle, Awareness For Others

FAIR LAWN, N.J.– Bruce Buffalino of Fair Lawn was recently diagnosed with mantle cell lymphoma three years after suffering a stroke that cost him his peripheral vision. 

Bruce Buffalino captaining his friend's boat.

Bruce Buffalino captaining his friend's boat.

Photo Credit: Luis Vazquez
Bruce Buffalino spending time with his great nephew, James, and Lucy the dog.

Bruce Buffalino spending time with his great nephew, James, and Lucy the dog.

Photo Credit: Luis Vazquez
Buffalino's nephew, Luis Vasquez, and Vasquez's son, Anthony.

Buffalino's nephew, Luis Vasquez, and Vasquez's son, Anthony.

Photo Credit: COURTESY: Luis Vasquez

Though he has insurance, Buffalino is behind on his medical bills, since not all of the procedures he's undergone are covered.

Earlier this month, his nephew, Luis Vazquez, launched a Go Fund Me page to help cover Buffalino's expenses. 

"Uncle Bruce has a contagious smile and a heart of gold. He's a simple man. He's like everybody's uncle," Vazquez, a Fair Lawn police officer, told Daily Voice. 

Fortunately for Buffalino – who continues to work at a lumber yard in Pequannock – doctors were able to detect the lymphoma while it was in its early stages.

Vazquez said he hopes people have their symptoms checked before it's too late.

"My uncle's skin tone starting to look grayish and he complained of leg cramps," the lifelong Fair Lawn resident said. "He procrastinated a little until my aunt pushed him to go to the doctor.

"I don't want people to be afraid of their insurance limits. If something is wrong, you should get checked out."

To donate, or for more information, click here.

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