Friends secure signed Brady jersey to be auctioned in Gianna Cirella's memory

WARWICK, R.I (WJAR) — A man has answered the call for a signed Tom Brady jersey that will be auctioned in memory of a Toll Gate High School student.

Gianna Cirella, a 16-year-old goalie on the soccer team, died of sepsis in November. Her friends sent out a tweet asking for a signed Brady jersey to auction off at an upcoming gala in Gianna's name.

Gianna also wore No. 12, and she was an avid Patriots and Brady fan.

Steven Barbato, the owner of a local memorabilia business, said he's donating a white No. 12 jersey, signed by the New England Patriots quarterback.

"My wife Kim said to me, 'Look, the news is doing this. Is there anything you can do? You went to Toll Gate. You must know somebody,'" Barbato said.

And that's when Steve's friend and boss, Bob Tasca, stepped in to help.

The silent auction will take place at the Gianna Cirella Memorial Gala on April 20 at the Crowne Plaza in Warwick. Funds raised will go directly toward sepsis research.

Another local soccer inspiration, Maddie Potts, who died on the field last year, is also being remembered.

Barbato is donating a signed magazine cover of No. 11 Julian Edelman making an incredible catch in Super Bowl LI.

Potts wore No. 11.

"But I also heard your news this morning, and we decided to give Maddie's family the 'Miracle Catch' Edelman photo with the shoe because it's my understanding she already has a jersey," Barbato said.

Two No. 11 jerseys from Patriots wide receiver Julian Edelman and Eagles quarterback Carson Wentz have already raised about $2,000 in her name.

The money will go toward scholarships.