On the morning of August 11, 2019, our son, brother, uncle and friend, Matthew Toriello, passed away from an opioid overdose at age 34.  Matthew worked hard  through his life to help others — especially anyone who was young or struggling. His unique gift was an ability to make all feel welcome and valued, young or old, healthy or sick, popular or not.

One of the most important things Matthew taught us was the value of transparency and vulnerability.  It’s through Matthew’s courage to share his struggles and experiences in his last year with us that we were able to forgive each other and begin to heal as a family.  We are forever grateful that we left off in a state of love and hope, rather than anger and distrust.