The Millstone Times

Cooper Grossman Recipient of the 2017 NJYS Comeback Player of the Year And his battle against Kleine- Levin Syndrome By Pam T el

On February 2nd, in East Windsor, The New Jersey Youth Soccer hosted its 30th Annual Awards Dinner where it honored many players, coaches, and members of the soccer community. One of the honorees was sixteen-year-old Cooper Grossman, who was named the recipient of the 2017 NJYS Comeback Player of the Year Award, which was presented by JAG Physical Therapy. The award was created to honor an individual who has overcome adversity or injury to excel beyond expectations as a soccer player. The entire JAG Physical Therapy team was proud to present the inaugural award for Comeback Player of the Year to Cooper. John Gallucci Jr., President and CEO of JAG Physical Therapy, went on to say, “After being diagnosed with Kleine-Levin Syndrome, a disease that most of us never even knew existed, Cooper persevered and remained committed to continuing the day to day joys of childhood, including the sport of soccer. Cooper’s story is truly inspirational, and we are proud to honor him as our 2017 Comeback Player of the Year!” Cooper’s passion for the game, his teammates, and his school, has been a driving force that helps him personally as he continues to deal with Kleine-Levin Syndrome (KLS). Kleine-Levin Syndrome (KLS) is a rare and complex neurological disorder characterized by recurring periods of excessive amounts of sleep, altered behavior, and a reduced understanding of the world. The disorder strikes adolescents primarily but can occur in younger children and adults. At the onset of an episode the patient becomes progressively drowsy and sleeps for most of the day and night (hyper somnolence),

Cooper Grossman receives his award, with President of Jag Physical Therapy- John Gallucci Jr.

sometimes waking only to eat or go to the bathroom. Each episode lasts days, weeks or months during which time all normal daily activities stop. Individuals are not able to care for themselves or attend school and work. In between episodes, those with KLS appear to be in perfect health with no evidence of behavioral or physical dysfunction. KLS episodes may continue for 10 years or more. KLS is sometimes referred to in the media as “Sleeping Beauty” syndrome. Cooper realizes the uncertain nature of KLS and knows it can come about very suddenly. He works diligently at school and uses his love of soccer as a forum to remain positive. After dealing with a number of episodes in early 2017, Cooper completed his fall high school season and then played with his club team, maintaining his schoolwork the entire time. Never one to make excuses, he embraces a determined attitude to push forward and make sure he gets it done, while living by the motto that “Tough times don’t last. Tough people do!” With the acceptance of the 2017 NJYS Comeback Player of the Year Award, Cooper hopes that this acknowledgement can spread awareness for KLS and its early diagnosis. For more information on KLS, make sure to visit their official website at klsfoundation.org.

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