We’re in the middle of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, when people across the country are reminded that young children are dying every day from cancer. Three hundred children die each year just from Pontine Glioma, so I can’t even begin to think about how many families have to suffer through all the types of pediatric cancers out there. I belong to a DIPG group online and when I read the posts on there, it makes me sad because I know what they’re going through. But that sadness is also a constant reminder that we must find a cure.

That’s why the Cristian Rivera Foundation is so important to me. I’m helping to raise the money necessary to find a cure for Pontine Glioma. A cure is a promise that no child and no family will have to suffer through this terrible cancer again. To help make my dream a reality, the Cristian Rivera Foundation is having its second annual gala on Tuesday, October 19 at Quo in New York City. Last year’s gala was a big success. I know this one will be even better and that Cristian will smile as he watches it from above.

John “Gungie” Rivera
Forever Cristian’s Daddy