East Islip HS Senior Receives Special Note, Ice Cream Money

EAST ISLIP, NY — Matthew Micalizzi, a senior set to graduate from East Islip High School, was recently the recipient of a random act of kindness from someone he's never met. Jamie Fairley, of Smithtown, sent Matthew a handwritten note with $10 attached, telling him, "have an ice cream cone on me." Fairley made a Facebook post asking if anyone knew a class of 2020 senior, Laura Micalizzi said. Matthew's name was sent to her by Michelle Swartz, who is Laura's sister-in-law.

"This card was an unexpected, wonderful surprise that put a smile on not only my son's face, but mine as well," Laura said. "My son Matthew, along with all 2020 seniors, are missing out on so many 'lasts.' It is nice to know people are thinking of the Class of 2020 and wanting to wish them all well during all this."

Fairley felt "truly sad" for the Class of 2020, as graduating seniors lost out on once-in-a-lifetime celebrations that were canceled or postponed due to the coronavirus, she told Patch.

"I wanted to celebrate their personal milestone; let them know we won't forget them," she said.
Fairley began her letter with the following quote from Henry David Thoreau: "If we will be quiet and ready enough, we shall find compensation in every disappointment."

"Dear Matthew," the letter reads, "I am sorry the Class of 2020 will be unable to have the celebration you so richly earned. In spite of that, a bright future is just around the corner."

Jamie Fairley's note to East Islip High School graduating senior Matthew Micalizzi. (Credit: Laura Micalizzi)

Michael DeSantis contributed to this report.