Marisa was born with hypoplastic left-heart syndrome. The complex cardiac defect required six open-heart surgeries. After her sixth surgery, Marisa developed two life-threatening conditions known as protein-losing enteropathy and plastic bronchitis. Ultimately, she required a heart transplant. The transplant was supposed to extend Marisa’s life, but tragically cut it short when a postoperative complication developed into a rare form of cancer known as post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder. After radiation and chemotherapy treatments failed to thwart the relentless onslaught of the aggressive disease, which riddled her brain and body, Marisa succumbed to her illness following a valiant battle on January 30, 2017. She was just 13 years old. Despite being hospitalized for more than two years and maintaining hundreds of doctor’s appointments, Marisa lived a vibrant life that inspired.

The Marisa Tufaro Foundation, which assists pediatric patients and other children in need throughout the greater Middlesex County area, is a fitting way to honor Marisa and keep alive her indomitable spirit. It allows her parents, Greg and Cyndi, to give back to the residents of a community that has long provided overwhelming love and support.