83-year-old cancer patient gifted new mattress through the Joe Andruzzi Foundation

METHUEN, Mass. — A local foundation is getting in the holiday spirit and helping New England cancer patients sleep more comfortably at night.

On Monday, the Joe Andruzzi Foundation, in partnership with Bob’s Discount Furniture, delivered a new mattress and bedding set to Joseph Schembri, an 83-year-old Methuen resident.

Schembri was diagnosed with multiple myeloma and has been in treatment since 2004. The Andruzzi Foundation has been supporting his cancer journey since 2017.

“I can’t believe it, it’s just unbelievable,” Schembri said. “I appreciate it, I appreciate it very much.”

“This holiday season, we’re excited to bring some joy to patients like Joseph and his wife,” said Joe Andruzzi, Co-Founder and Chief Engagement Officer of the Joe Andruzzi Foundation. “It’s truly special to make a meaningful difference in the lives of these families especially around the holidays, and it warms our hearts to give them a memorable day and comfortable night’s rest.”

Andruzzi, a guard for the New England Patriots from 2000 to 2004, won three Super Bowls with the team. Photos show Schembri and Andruzzi wearing Andruzzi’s old Super Bowl rings.

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In 2024, the Joe Andruzzi Foundation raised more than $62,000 on Giving Tuesday, while Bob’s Discount Furniture matched all donations up to $25,000. For every $5,000 raised, the discount furniture company donated mattresses to cancer patients like Schembri.

In total, 10 mattresses are set to be donated to patients across New England.

“Every holiday season we look forward to our partnership with the Joe Andruzzi Foundation” said Kurt Pappalardo, Director of Commercial Sales, Bob’s Discount Furniture. “Bob’s is proud to support the Foundation’s mission, and to help cancer patients in New England rest comfortably so they can focus on their health.”

For more information about the foundation, click here.

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