“Austin was important to his friends, so it’s important to honor him,” Special Education teacher Jan Lindmeier said. “As long as he would’ve been here, we’re going to make sure he’s honored.”

Austin Jaros-Riley, a student at FHN, passed away of Fanconi Anemia last year. This year would’ve been Austin’s senior year. Friday, Feb. 28, would’ve been his 18th birthday and for that reason, students can pay $1 to wear hats to school this Friday. Lindmeier, Jaros-Riley’s case worker, who sponsors the event, came up with the idea in order to honor Jaros-Riley’s memory. Lindmeier hopes that Jaros-Riley’s classmates will get a chance to remember him for the great friend that he was.

“It’s a good idea to hold the hat day to make sure Austin is remembered throughout the year,” junior Kristen Crow said.

Jaros-Riley passed away on Feb. 3, 2013 of Fanconi Anemia, an inherited blood disorder that leads to bone marrow failure.  Jaros-Riley’s grandmother, Patti Carter, will walk the halls in memory of Austin, like his mother did earlier this year.  All proceeds from Friday’s Hat day will be donated to the Fanconi Anemia Research Fund inc. Another goal of Lindmeier’s is to have an open seat at graduation where Austin would’ve been siting.

“It’s important to remember him, and raise awareness for others who might get the disease.” senior Derek Tankersly said.