#United States #New York #Gala Event #Cristian Rivera #D.I.P.G.

Cristian Rivera Foundation's 16th Annual Celebrity Gala

The Cristian Rivera Foundation, devoted to combating Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (D.I.P.G.), is excited to announce its upcoming 16th Annual Celebrity Gala. This highly anticipated event will be hosted on November 12, 2025, from 6:30 PM to 11:30 PM at the prestigious Cipriani Wall Street in New York City.

With the goal of raising funds for essential research and support services for affected families, this gala highlights the tremendous efforts made in the fight against this aggressive pediatric brain tumor. The foundation is proud to have notable sponsorship from organizations including the Maestro Cares Foundation and RMM Group, alongside contributions from Goya, My Tax Fella, and other esteemed partners.

The gala promises an evening filled with inspiration and compassion, hosted by some of the entertainment industry's most beloved personalities. Award-winning actor Kenan Thompson, who holds the record for the longest-tenured cast member of Saturday Night Live, along with Darlene Rodriguez of NBC's Today, esteemed actor Luis Guzmán, and the multifaceted Malik Yoba, will guide attendees through a night dedicated to honoring heroes in the community.

This year, noteworthy honorees include the Lutnick family of the Cantor Fitzgerald Relief Fund, recognized for their commitment to corporate philanthropy. Oswaldo Cabrera, a standout player from the New York Yankees, will be receiving the CRF Heroes Award, while Dr. John Boockvar will be celebrated for his groundbreaking contributions to medical research with the Vision of Hope Award.Emiliano Bermejo, a brave D.I.P.G. warrior, will also be recognized for his journey, receiving the CRF Warrior Award.

The event will commence with a glamorous red-carpet reception and cocktail hour from 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM, followed by a sumptuous seated dinner. Attendees can look forward to an awards ceremony, both live and silent auctions featuring exclusive items, and a heartfelt video tribute that honors the courageous families inspiring the foundation's mission. The evening culminates in a vibrant after-party featuring live music, dancing, and delectable desserts, creating an unforgettable experience filled with hope and community spirit.

Every dollar raised from the gala is crucial, as it directly supports vital clinical trials at renowned institutions such as Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medical College, and Mount Sinai Kravis Children's Hospital. In addition to research, the foundation provides essential financial aid to families grappling with the challenges posed by D.I.P.G.

John "Gungie" Rivera, the Foundation's founder and president, expresses the mission of the organization succinctly: "The Cristian Rivera Foundation is all about love, hope, and action. Every child and family facing D.I.P.G. deserves a future. Together, we continue to fight for cures, support families, and turn heartbreak into hope."

Established in 2009, the Cristian Rivera Foundation stands as a pivotal entity in the realm of D.I.P.G. research, having committed over $3.5 million to date. After losing his son Cristian to this devastating illness at just four years old, John Rivera's passion and dedication have driven the foundation’s efforts to advance research tailored towards finding effective treatments.

Notably, the foundation's support has led to remarkable progress, including groundbreaking clinical trials overseen by Dr. Mark Souweidane, whose innovative methods have led to success stories amongst patients. Remarkably, Lisha Ayala became the first survivor of Dr. Souweidane's research a decade ago, paving the way for more children to fight D.I.P.G. with hope.

As the gala approaches, sponsorship packages, table reservations, and advertising opportunities remain available. Community involvement through attendance and donations plays a crucial role in facilitating ongoing D.I.P.G. research and providing support to affected families. All contributions are tax-deductible and vital for sustaining the foundation’s mission to eradicate this rare form of cancer.

To purchase tickets or to learn more about supporting this important cause, please visit the Cristian Rivera Foundation's website dedicated to the 16th Annual Celebrity Gala.

In closing, the Cristian Rivera Foundation persistently upholds its mission, striving for a future free of D.I.P.G., advancing medical research, and extending compassionate support to children and families enduring the challenges of this disease.