Tracy Landino: An Inspiration for East Haven

There is no doubt that when a neighbor is in need, East Haven residents never hesitate to band together to help out in any way they can.

And the community is once again organizing an effort to assist one of its own as she struggles through a difficult and important time in the her life.

Tracy Landino

For more than a decade, Tracy Landino has been in an ongoing battle for her health and general well being. 

The lifelong East Haven resident was first diagnosed with breast cancer 11 years ago. 

Since then, she has successfully beat the disease back into remission twice.

'Something Just Wasn't Right'

Earlier this year, however, it returned for a third time — aggressively moving into Landino's lungs. 

"I was at the gym, and I was unable to catch my breath," she told East Haven Patch, during an interview Wednesday morning. "And I knew, something just wasn't right."

And so since May, it has been a steady stream of chemotherapy treatments, and then the unfortunate fact of having to deal with the often negative side effects those treatments can have on its patients. 

"For example, right now, I am unable to swallow regular food," Landino said, noting that for the time being, she must puree any kind of solid food before she can eat it.

"This time, it's all just more complicated," she said of her current struggle.

'A Family Fight'

In fact, this Thursday, the 42-year-old will be undergoing a special hospital procedure where she will have her throat stretched in an attempt to curtail muscle spasms there, a complication brought upon by the chemo. 

"But right now, the treatments are working… the benefits outweigh the negatives," she said.

The complications this time are also compounded by the fact that Landino's mother is also currently engaged in her own personal battle with cancer.

"This fight is really a family fight," she said.

An Inspiration

But through all of this, Landino continues to be a constant beacon of hope and inspiration to those she knows. 

Starting, friends say, with her infectious smile.

"My friends really keep me grounded," she said, with a smile. "I lean on my friends."

Landino's effect on others goes beyond her group of close friends and family. 

It resonates town-wide: the East Haven youth football league dedicated its season this year to Landino.

"I just have a very strong base," she said.

Community Benefit

To help Tracy and her family offset their health-related financial burdens, friends have organized a community fundraiser for this Sunday.

The Take-Out Ziti Dinner, hosted by St. Clare's Church along Coe Avenue, will offer a complete homemade family meal — pasta, meatball, salad, bread and even dessert — for just $10.

Click here for more information and/or to order tickets. 

Organizers are looking to have most of the meal tickets purchased by the end of the day Friday to allow them to cook and prepare enough for everyone who wants to take part.

Making a Difference

Landino says the last few years have been a difficult time for her. But her friends have been there for her, tirelessly providing a network of love and support. 

And friends say Landino returns the favor, with her patented positivity as she battles daily for her own life.

"I am very open about my journey, not because I want any kind of sympathy," she explained. "But because I want to educate people — make a difference."