Nicole Gizzi

Our story:  Nicole was just expecting to find out the sex of her baby; her ultrasound showed more than that. Little baby Marisa was diagnosed in utero with congenital cystic adenomatoid malformation, choroid plexus cysts, and traces of trisomy 20. Nicole was referred to CHOP and immediately felt at ease. “Before we officially met to go over test results, Dr. Peranteau popped into our room and just said ‘Hi I’m Bill; everything is going to be ok.’” And it was. Marisa is now an outgoing, funny and caring 7-year-old. She’s learning to read and play the piano. Nicole says, “CHOP gave us hope when we felt hopeless. Marisa is here and thriving because of them.” 

For the month of May I'm participating in the 31-Day Challenge at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP). I've pledged to get active for 31 days to support cutting-edge research and care at CHOP!

Why I Participate
CHOP makes miracles. When we heard about Marisa’s diagnosis when I was pregnant my doctors made it sound hopeless. We went to CHOP and they gave us hope. At 2 1/2 months old Marisa had the lower left lobe of her lunch removed there. Seven years after her surgery, Marisa is perfect. They told us she’d just have a scar and a story. They were right!  We couldn’t be more grateful for all that they did for our family.

The time for breakthroughs is now. CHOP is on the cusp of life-changing discoveries. They are transforming the well-being of children and creating healthier communities throughout Philadelphia and across the world. I am raising money because I want to help make today’s innovative ideas, tomorrow’s realities. 

How You Can Help
Consider supporting me by making a tax-deductible donation as I take on my challenge to raise money for kids at CHOP. You can also join me along with thousands of others across the country and get active during May.