Konnect Event

May is Tuberous Sclerosis Awareness Month, and Konnect Services LLC has the privilege to celebrate the journey of a very special and courageous young man – Tristian Smith. Tristian suffers from a rare genetic disorder, Tuberous Sclerosis Complex, which has caused Tristian to develop non-cancerous tumors on his skin, brain, and other organs. While these tumors are non-cancerous, Tristian has had to deal with many health issues from the condition, such as daily seizures. At just 11 years old, Tristian’s journey with Tuberous Sclerosis has been a long and difficult one with brain surgeries and regular speech therapy, but Tristian has stayed strong! Throughout the pain and the adversity, Tristian has continued to stay positive and has rarely complained.

On May 15th, 2023, many community members came together to celebrate Tristian’s Journey Day, in honor of Tuberous Sclerosis Complex Global Awareness. This event was first introduced in 2018 when Mayor Gonneli of the town of Secaucus, New Jersey signed a proclamation to honor Tristian’s amazing journey. Tristian’s strength continues to be celebrated on his own special day each year, and Konnect Services is very proud to be part of such an incredibly special event. Along with Konnect and other significant sponsors like TSC Alliance and Hudson Partnership CMO, the event was officially hosted and presented by Mayor Gonnelli and the Secaucus Board of Education. The event also had the honor of hosting retired NBA Player and celebrated author of Soul Survivors, Gary Forbes, as its special guest speaker.

Support for Tristian’s journey has been and will continue to be made available to Tristian and his family through Konnect Services, as Konnect has offered continuous advocacy for Tristian’s disease in the greater community. Since 2018, Konnect Services has also provided case management services to Tristian and his family; such as support with school supplies, food, and transportation.