Gloria Cuccione has been instrumental in the creation and ongoing success of the Michael Cuccione Foundation, named after her late son. Since the foundation’s creation in 1997, it has raised – together with grants and matching funds – more than $15 million toward pediatric oncology research.

Michael Cuccione was a singer, actor, author, motivational speaker and most importantly to him, a childhood cancer crusader. Michael died at the tender age of 16 in 2001 of respiratory complications after winning his battle with cancer. While his passing was devastating to Gloria Cuccione and her family, they did not respond with helplessness. Michael’s dream had been to find a cure for childhood cancer. With the dedication of Gloria and her husband Domenic, the foundation continues to pursue this important goal.

Today, Gloria Cuccione continues to be one of the driving forces behind the achievement of the Michael Cuccione Foundation. Her inspiration, motivation and unparalleled work has culminated in the Michael Cuccione Childhood Cancer Research program at BC Children’s Hospital, whose researchers are making breakthrough discoveries in the fight against childhood cancer.

Gloria Cuccione presents scholarships to schools, participates and hosts several fundraising initiatives, and supports the Vancouver Italian Cultural Centre. She takes on motivational speaking engagements and assists families whose lives have become immersed in childhood cancer.

Mrs. Cuccione is an outstanding advocate in the search for improved treatment and –ultimately – a cure for childhood cancer.