The Cristian Rivera Foundation: Fighting the Good Fight

By Carlos Keyes, Red Entertainment Agency

Diffuse pontine glioma (DIPG) or brainstem glioma is a malignant tumor that occurs in young children. The tumor, which attacks the lowest portion of the brain where many vital functions are controlled, afflicts approximately 300 new children annually in the United States. Life expectancy once the tumor is diagnosed remains extremely short, generally between three and 18 months. The tumors impact is both deadly and devastating. The Cristian Rivera Foundation was established to honor young Cristian, who was diagnosed with DIPG in 2007 and passed away a little more than two years later. The foundation works to promote awareness of the disease, serve as a resource center, and raise funds for promising medical research and treatment studies. The Cristian Rivera Foundation has been fighting the good fight against DIPG on behalf of young children everywhere who face the devastating diagnosis. To learn more, visit www.cristianriverafoundation.org. About the Author Carlos Keyes is the founder of Red Entertainment Agency in New York City. He serves as a board member of The Cristian Rivera Foundation.