#USA #New York #Cristian Rivera Foundation #D.I.P.G. #Daniel P. O'Toole

Daniel P. O'Toole Honored at Cristian Rivera Foundation Gala

On November 12, 2026, Daniel P. O'Toole, the managing partner of Block O'Toole & Murphy, was awarded the Philanthropic Leadership Award during the Cristian Rivera Foundation's 17th Annual Celebrity Gala. This prestigious event, held in New York City, brings together prominent figures to raise awareness and funds for the fight against a rare and lethal form of pediatric cancer known as D.I.P.G. (Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma).

The Cristian Rivera Foundation has been at the forefront of advocating for the search for a cure for D.I.P.G. since its establishment in 2009. The gala not only serves as a fundraising event but also as a platform to unite those affected by childhood cancers and to share hope and resilience. Mr. O'Toole, in his acceptance speech, eloquently expressed the spirit of the evening, saying, "We are here today to focus on this terrible disease. But we'll focus on it with hearts full of love."

The event featured an array of stars, including comedian Kenan Thompson, actor Luis Guzmán, and NBC Today anchor Darlene Rodriguez, who collectively honored fellow advocates within the CRF community who have made significant contributions to combating childhood cancer. Among the other honorees were retired MLB player David Cone, Dr. David Langer from Lenox Hill, and Col. Marisol Chalas, alongside D.I.P.G. warrior Lisha Ayala, who has bravely battled the disease for 14 years.

In addition to recognizing individual achievements, Block O'Toole & Murphy proudly served as a gold sponsor of the gala, which took place at Cipriani Wall Street. Through a combination of live and silent auctions, the evening successfully raised over $200,000, all of which will fund critical research initiatives, support treatment options, and spread educational outreach regarding D.I.P.G. treatments.

The honor presented to Mr. O'Toole by actors Chazz Palminteri and Bo Dietl is awarded annually to individuals showing an exceptional dedication to philanthropy, especially toward eradicating pediatric cancers. In his speech, Mr. O'Toole reaffirmed his commitment not only to the foundation but to various other charitable organizations, including St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, One Mission, the Hole in the Wall Gang Camp, and Pony Power Therapies, demonstrating a sustained effort in philanthropic efforts.

As a prominent plaintiff personal injury attorney, Mr. O'Toole has focused his career on achieving justice for victims, fighting against significant challenges. In light of this recognition from the Cristian Rivera Foundation, he emphasized the necessity of collaborative efforts to improve the outlook for children afflicted by D.I.P.G., stating, "I know it's not supposed to happen again, that this beautiful group of people will be together in this room. But tonight, let's leave with a prayer that it will happen again. It will happen again when we get the great news that we have a cure and that the last parent has received that dreaded phone call."

About Block O'Toole & Murphy

Block O'Toole & Murphy is a highly regarded personal injury law firm committed to advocating for individuals harmed due to others' negligence. With a proven record of recovering over $2 billion in settlements and verdicts, the firm provides support for victims of various incidents, including car accidents and workplace injuries. Clients seeking assistance can reach out for a free consultation at 212-736-5300 or visit their website at Block O'Toole & Murphy.