Cristian Rivera Foundation

2018, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24
Awarded 7 Consecutive Years

2018, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25
Awarded 8 Consecutive Years

Welcome to the Cristian Rivera Foundation

On January 22nd, 2007, 4–year-old Cristian was diagnosed with Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (D.I.P.G.), which is a rare brain tumor located in the stem of the brain.

After the doctors examined Cristian and reviewed his MRI, Cristian’s father received the worst news of his life. The tumor was inoperable and the average lifespan for a child with D.I.P.G. after diagnosis is 3 to 18 months.

Cristian fought his battle with D.I.P.G. for 2 years and a few days. His father never gave up hope and prayed that God would heal his beloved child. Cristian did his best to fight against this horrific disease, but on January 25, 2009, he passed away in the loving arms of his father.

Cristian’s story magnifies how important the work of the Cristian Rivera Foundation truly is. Our work is to find a cure for the deadly DIPG tumor that ultimately claimed the life of Cristian Rivera. Your tax–deductible donation will treat – and one day – CURE D.I.P.G. so no other family will have to suffer the grief that Cristian Rivera’s family endured.

The Story of D.I.P.G.

D.I.P.G. can impact everyday bodily functions such as swallowing, speech, eye movement, and facial expression. These symptoms of cranial nerve dysfunction in D.I.P.G. are progressive and can worsen as the tumor spreads to surrounding brain tissue. Because the brainstem is key in controlling motor functions throughout the body, affected children may also exhibit impaired motor function and coordination. Symptoms include weakness in the arms or legs, and difficulty balancing or walking.

Although D.I.P.G. majorly presents itself as a physical illness, our warriors are also faced with a challenging mental and emotional journey. Those with D.I.P.G. may experience changes in behavior such as mood swings, restlessness, and difficulty concentrating. Coping with all of these changes can be overwhelming for many children who desperately need treatment and support.

“The Journey of a Father and Son”

Tuesday 5th of November 2019

Dear Cristian,

I know I haven’t written in the Journal in quite a while but there isn’t a day that goes by that I don’t think about you. I’ve been working so hard to make your foundation amazing …

Friday 10th of November 2017

Cristian, I am working on the Pre Production for the Ninth Annual Gala. It is 2am and I am still at it. I Never Stop thinking about you… So many times I wish the progress that has been made was made prior to you being Diagnosed. I Love You Cristian. …

Monday 12th of September 2016

Cristian, in a few Minutes it will be your 14th Bday. Instead of Celebrating with You, I am Preparing the next 24 hours in Your Honor. I will set up Your Trains, and Do all the Fun Things we used to do Together. …

Meet Our Warriors

Each of these individuals is battling D.I.P.G. and staying strong. Learn more about each person’s journey and what you can do to help.

Events

View Our Upcoming Events

Donate

By just donating you can bring us one step closer to finding a cure for D.I.P.G. (Diffuse Instrinic Pontine Glioma)

Volunteer

HELP US MAKE A DIFFERENCE

A tax-deductible donation to the Cristian Rivera Foundation will support ground-breaking D.I.P.G. research towards our ultimate goal of finding a cure. Donations also help us create D.I.P.G. awareness and financially support families affected by D.I.P.G. To date, the Cristian Rivera Foundation has donated over $3,500,000.00 (Three Million Five Hundred Thousand Dollars) toward these goals.

200 - 400

children are diagnosed with
D.I.P.G. each year

5 - 10

years old:
age group of children
most commonly diagnosed

D.I.P.G. accounts for

10 - 15%

of brain tumors in children

CRF Blog

The Cristian Rivera Foundation Blog features stories of inspiration, helpful information, and creative pieces. Check out our blog below or read some of our featured posts.