Everyone at the Cristian Rivera Foundation would like to express our condolences to the family of Olivia Boccuzzi, a beautiful girl who earned her wings this past Monday, August 20, 2012 after battling against a brain stem tumor for exactly 11 months. From the moment of her diagnosis, her parents Frank and Enza never gave up hope. They were close friends to The Cristian Rivera Foundation. During their search to help their daughter, they met John Rivera, father of Cristian Rivera and he informed them about Dr. Mark Souweidane & his work associated with children’s brain tumors. Dr. Souweidane met the Boccuzzi’s and he ended up performing a biopsy on the tumor. Olivia had a brain stem tumor but it could not be determined whether it was DIPG or not. This delightful young girl loved dancing like a ballerina, watching Dora the Explorer and playing with her 4-year-old brother James. Olivia was full of energy and love. She is a pioneer in the world of DIPG. Rest in Peace, Olivia. We will never forget your beautiful spirit.
