By Richard Kaufman
There was a new boss behind the big desk in the First Selectman’s Office at Town Hall on Friday afternoon, and it was six-year-old Chickahominy resident, Elmer Diaz.
Fred Camillo gladly stepped aside from his role as Greenwich’s top official for the day, and handed the reins over to Elmer — making him honorary First Selectman for Jan. 22. Elmer was presented with a Certificate of Special Recognition
Elmer was diagnosed with an inoperable cancerous brain tumor in August of 2020. According to his mother, Maria Jose Felipe, he’s undergoing treatment with the hopes that the tumor will shrink, but time will tell if that’s possible.
A social worker from the Hospital Elmer is receiving treatment from reached out to the Greenwich Police Department about Elmer’s circumstances, and the department got in touch with Camillo’s office. Camillo first met the young boy last month before Christmas.
“[Since then], people were coming forward with generous hearts and wanted to help. It’s about [Elmer and his mother] today, and showing the very best of our community,” Camillo said.
But you don’t just become First Selectman of Greenwich and come away empty-handed. Camillo presented Elmer with several gifts that were donated by an RTM member from District 8 — Paw Patrol fire and police themed toys, a full jumbo dinosaur figurine set, a set of dinosaur stickers, and even some cookies, which Elmer enjoyed shortly after.
Joe Lockridge and Tina Pray presented Elmer’s mother, Maria, with a check worth $5,000, from the Russell Maguire Foundation. Russell Maguire was Tina’s grandfather.
“On behalf of my family foundation, I’d like to present you with this check that I hope will help you and your son very much in getting him better. I hope it makes life a little easier for you. From my family to yours,” said Pray, who serves on the Board of the foundation.
Maria broke down in tears.
“Thank you so much. Thank you for making my son very happy,” Maria said, through translator and Greenwich Police Officer, Suiyan Su Ah Sor.
Other donations were made by Greenwich residents Rob Morris, Joe Kaliko and Amy’s Angels, a Connecticut organization that assists families experiencing a debilitating illness or injury.
“I’m very happy that the community has been so helpful and very supportive through the difficult times we’re going through. Thank you so much for everything that everyone has helped us with,” Maria said.
Anyone who wants to contribute or help Elmer and his family can contact the Office of the First Selectman.
