Cole Weber, Cole's Crusaders Recognized by Scotch Plains Council

At Tuesday's Scotch Plains Council meeting, council members took a moment to recognize Cole Weber, a junior at Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School undergoing treatment for lymphoma, and "Cole's Crusaders," a group of family of friends who have been selling t-shirts and organizing support for Weber and his family. 

Councilman Lou Beckerman spoke about Weber's fight, noting especially the teen's positive attitude. 

"Cole had had a wonderful sophomore year as goalie for the lacrosse team, with four state, division and county recognitions for his play," said Beckerman. "He registered to attend three college lacrosse showcases and because his treatment started, he was unable to attend any of them. But with the same bravery and positive attitude and fight he uses to protect the goal, he attacked the challenge of lymphoma." 

Weber has now been through several cycles of chemo, with positive results where the original problem areas are no longer visible, and will go through more as only an assurance, said Beckerman. 

Also recognized were "Cole's Crusaders," a group started by Weber's sister Hailey, cousin and aunt, to show Weber he had friends supporting his battle.

Because of an outgrowth of interest in donating to the cost of Weber's treatment, the group began selling hundreds of lime green (the color for lymphoma awareness) "Cole's Crusader" shirts. They also organized a meal chain to provide meals for the family while Weber is undergoing treatment.

Deputy Mayor Colleen Gialanella, a cancer survivor herself, read a proclamation recognizing Weber and Cole's Crusaders and said she was especially proud to be a community resident when she attended a fundraiser for the Weber's and saw how others had rallied around the family. 

Mayor Kevin Glover noted that the Weber family provided meals to seniors in the aftermath of Superstorm Sandy. 

"You are a remarkable family," said the mayor. "Your family makes Scotch Plains better. I'm a firm believer in what goes around comes around."