Friends of Lagodich to honor his commitment to job, community

By Katelyn Gendron

Reminder Assistant Editor

WEST SPRINGFIELD The friends of Tom Lagodich can't say a bad word about him. He's kind. He's giving. He's "magnanimous!" one said.

Longtime friend Gary Sheehan explained that Lagodich is well respected as the Building Department's local inspector and a great friend to all in and out of the office.

Lagodich's dedication to others and fairness on the job is why so many are joining together to organize next month's benefit in his honor to help raise funds for his medical bills. Earlier this year, Lagodich was diagnosed with leukemia and has been receiving chemotherapy treatment.

"It's almost overwhelming, the response and the inquiries for my condition," Lagodich said in an interview with Reminder Publications.

He explained that his prognosis is "fairly good" as he lives a healthy lifestyle and is in fine physical shape.

"It's a complete surprise," Lagodich said of his diagnosis, adding. "I'm lucky that I have [matching bone marrow] donors in my family and they're happy to do it."

Longtime friend Edward Sullivan said Lagodich is "embarrassed" that the benefit is being organized only because he is usually the one giving to others and not the other way around.

"He's modest," Sullivan explained. "He's a great friend and would do anything for anybody and I think there will be a tremendous showing at the night of his fundraiser."

Sheehan noted that many local businesses are also donating gift certificates and other raffle prizes for the event.

Former Town Councilor George Kelly is also aiding the fundraising efforts as well as organizing the benefit.

He said he hopes the event "gives Tom a sense of how much this community cares about him. We'd like to help make a difference [in his life]."

The benefit will take place on Nov. 15 at the West Springfield/Agawam Elks #2174, 429 Morgan Rd. The cost is $25. Cocktails begin at 6:30 p.m. and the buffet will start at 7:30 p.m. There will also be a DJ and raffle prizes. Tickets for the benefit can be purchased by calling Sheehan at 734-0101.