Video: Springfield's new young celebrity draws world attention

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David Charns By David Charns Cole Rapini's bucket list draws world reaction Close to one million see story UPDATED 7:42 PM EDT May 23, 2012 4-year-old's bucket list draws world reaction SPRINGFIELD, Vt. - Since first reported Friday, dozens of people from across the world have asked how they can help Cole Rapini and his bucket list. The 4-year-old boy was born with an undiagnosed medical condition that’s caused severe developmental delays. Now, doctors have told Cole’s parents he will live for only a couple more years -- as the grey matter of his brain begins to deteriorate. Rather than focus on the negative, Cole’s parents, Hanna and Chris, have decided to fill Cole’s life with positive events – all surrounding an 81-item bucket list. “We had no idea that it would take off like it did,” Hanna said. At one point, Cole’s website – colescause.com – crashed. The outpouring of support is helping this family stay positive. “The list just gives us something to focus on,” Hanna said. “Instead of focusing on the future and something that's out of our control -- we have control of what he does and what he experiences while he's with us. We want hope, but we don't want to have false hope.” Thousands of people have spread the news through emails, and comments on wptz.com and Facebook. Some of those offers have been scheduled, Hanna said. Cole will be traveling to Connecticut to ride in a race car next week. He also has an appointment to get a blue mohawk. However, the kindness of strangers can be a little overwhelming, Hanna said. “We’ve been asking that people please be very patient with us,” Hanna said. “Chris and I both work and take care of Cole. We do want to get back to everybody personally, and we will, It’s just going to take us a little bit to keep up with everything.” The best way to reach the family is through email, Hanna said. And for Cole, “He knows something’s up,” she said. Visit Cole’s website at colescause.com. Email Cole’s parents at colescause@hotmail.com. You can also send a donation to help Cole complete his bucket list to: The Cole Rapini Fund, Rapini Family, P.O. Box 34, Springfield, VT 05156.