Leah Rodio

Leah Rodio is the owner of GorJess & LoveLee, a popular fashion boutique in Downtown Hammonton, New Jersey. Leah was instrumental in organizing the monthly Third Thursday event that showcases art, food, shopping, and entertainment while creating a pleasant evening experience in the heart of Hammonton. She also led the effort to create the week-long event called Boutique Week, which welcomes spring by offering great specials and activities to attract customers to Hammonton’s downtown. She has managed to build a successful retail business over the last five years through hard work and the personal touch she provides to everyone who enters her lovely shop.

In September of 2015, Leah was diagnosed with lymphoma cancer, which was devastating to Leah, her family, and friends. Being a young woman in her mid-twenties, it was difficult to understand how this could happen. However, Leah never asked, “Why me?” She just continued to fight the battle to overcome cancer. She suffered through a host of medical treatments and setbacks, yet managed to stay focused on beating her cancer with grace and humor.

Leah is an inspiration to the Hammonton community and someone who is deeply loved and admired for her courage and determination. Friends describe her as strong, hilarious, kind, and a testament to the power of positivity. Hammonton knows she is a true hero, which is why Leah has been nominated to be a New Jersey’s Heartland Hero. Words cannot adequately describe this wonderful woman but, if anyone is a Heartland Hero, it is Leah Rodio.