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D'Alesio, who attends the University of Pittsburgh, is raising funds for a medical mission trip to the Los Juries region in Argentina in mid-May through FOCUS, an organization for Catholic students.
Los Juries is in northern Argentina, a rural area that lacks health care services. D'Alesio who is studying medicine, will be assisting those in needs and working at schools and orphanages to offer health tips and educate people on preventive care.
"I believe becoming a doctor is the right thing for me to do," D'Alesio, who is leaning toward becoming a surgeon, said. "It's really hard, but it's a passion of mine.
This will be D'Alesio's first time going to South America and he said is looking forward to experiencing a new culture and meeting new people.
"This is very important to me," D'Alesio said. "I'm in a lucky position, being in American and being able to go to college and learn everything I want to learn. I am passionate about going there and giving back."
D'Alesio said his faith is also something that he is passionate about. He used to sing in his church choir at St. Patrick's Church until he realized he couldn't sing.
"I've always had a longstanding commitment to my religion and my faith," D'Alesio said. "That hasn't gone away."
The trip to Argentina will cost $3100 and D'Alesio has already raised $700.To donate, visit http://www.focusonline.org/goto/Mark_DAlesio or send a check to FOCUS with D'Alesio's missionary number 74478 in the memo line. Checks should be sent to:
FOCUS
PO Box 18710
Golden, CO 80402
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