Orange County Executive Neuhaus Honors Breast Cancer Survivor as October Citizen of the Month

County Executive Steve Neuhaus is proud to honor Veronica "Roni" Connolly as the Citizen of the Month for October. Connolly, a retired elementary and early childhood special educator, is celebrating an extraordinary milestone: 20 years cancer-free. She continues to inspire others through her advocacy, positivity, and strength.

Connolly was just 31 years old when she was diagnosed with stage 2 breast cancer in 2005. At the time, her daughter Courtney was only two and became Connolly's greatest motivation to fight through treatment. "At just 31, I faced a challenge I never anticipated, but through strength and resilience, I've reached this incredible milestone," Connolly shared. "These past 20 years have been filled with life's unforgettable moments, and I'm so grateful to have lived them cancer-free."

This year, Connolly is serving as the 2025 Hudson Valley Survivor Ambassador for the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer fundraiser. In that role, she leads the Survivor Squad and works to raise awareness and funds for breast cancer research, setting an ambitious goal of $20,000, which is $1,000 for each year she has been cancer-free.

"Roni's story is one of extraordinary strength, perseverance, and hope," said County Executive Neuhaus. "Her courage in the face of adversity and her dedication to helping others embody the very best of Orange County. She reminds us all to face life's challenges with optimism and to use our experiences to uplift others. I'm honored to recognize her as our October Citizen of the Month."

Connolly says her greatest reward comes from giving back and being a source of hope to others facing their own cancer battles. "When you're in the thick of treatment, it's hard to imagine life 20 years down the road. You're focused on the day, the moment, just getting through," she said. "But I'm living proof that survival is possible, that hope is real, and that happiness can return, even if it starts with simply getting out of bed. We have this one beautiful life to live, and if my story helps a mom, a daughter, or a friend find the strength to fight one more day, then I'll keep sharing it with a full heart. Because they can survive, too, just like me."

The American Cancer Society praised Connolly's dedication and leadership in the Hudson Valley community. "Making Strides Hudson Valley is thrilled to have Roni, a 20-year breast cancer survivor, as our Survivor Ambassador for the 30th Anniversary of Making Strides Against Breast Cancer," said Kristi Greco of the American Cancer Society. "Her unwavering commitment to supporting others on their cancer journeys and being a source of hope and strength is truly inspiring. I thank Roni for everything she does, not only to uplift others but also for her tireless work in raising awareness about the importance of cancer screenings throughout the Hudson Valley. Congratulations on 20 incredible, cancer-free years and cheers to many more!"

Born on Long Island, Connolly has lived in the Hudson Valley since 2008 with her husband, Dan, to whom she has been married for 24 years. Together they have one daughter, Courtney, who is now 23. During her 22-year teaching career, Connolly touched countless lives as a passionate educator. Outside of her advocacy work, she enjoys traveling, especially to the Caribbean, spending time outdoors, cheering for the Duke Blue Devils, and creating cherished memories with family and friends.

"Roni's journey is a testament to the power of resilience and hope," said Neuhaus. "Her story reminds us that even in the face of hardship, the human spirit can shine brightly and make a lasting difference." Connolly offers this advice to those newly diagnosed: "Cancer is tough, but you are tougher. It doesn't define you; it challenges you to your core in every way imaginable. Even when it feels like there's a dark cloud over you, you must dance in the rain and wait for the sun to shine again."

To join Strides, please register at www.MakingStridesWalk.org/HudsonValley

Neuhaus introduced his Citizen of the Month Award, which acknowledges outstanding residents who make a significant impact in their communities through volunteerism, leadership, and acts of kindness, in January 2017.

To nominate someone for the Citizen of the Month Award, please email[email protected] with the subject line "Citizen of the Month" at 255-275. Be sure to include the nominee's name, hometown, a list of their accomplishments, why you are nominating them and any other pertinent information.

For general media inquiries, contact Rebecca Sheehan, Assistant to the County Executive and Director of Public Information and Media Relations, at 845-291-2700 or [email protected].

To stay up to date on my work and the many initiatives happening across Orange County, follow Orange County Government and me on social media:

• Facebook: @OrangeCountyNYGovt | @Steve.Neuhaus
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Be sure to also check out the Blueprint Orange video series, a behind-the-scenes look at the projects, places, and people that make our County a great place to live. And don't miss the newest episode of NeuCast, featuring Echo Fields in Westtown, now streaming on the Orange County Government YouTube channel and OrangeCountyGov.com.