Kristen Passanisi was 18 years old on her last birthday, February 14, 2004. In September, 2000 She was diagnosed with neuroblastoma cancer.

     Kristen was visiting her father in California when she began experiencing persistant back pains. A C-Scan detected a tumor in her abdomen which was removed surgically. Since then she underwent extensive treatments, first at Childrens' Hospital in Chicago and then at Loyola University Hospital in Maywood, Illinois.

    Kristen was a Naperville resident most of her life, attending Naper Elementary, Washington Jr. High and graduated this year early as a Senior at Naper North High School. She was an honor student and a talented aspiring actress. Kristen's performances include several school plays as well as performances with Naperville's local production company, "Only A Stage".

    Kristen was an active participant in the American Cancer Society and was often asked to speak at fundraising events.

"She would write 'Visit me, I have candy' on her hospital room door.".....Jimmy Pesoli

"She had an immense strength of spirit, never gave up and kept her infectious smile and energy.".....Ralph DrBartolo

"We went looking for a hero and found an angel.".....Ralph DeBartolo

"Kristen's personality and refusal to set boundaries made everyone else's life better.".....Jimmy Pesoli

        At the "Night Of A Thousand Stars" Recognition Reception, held on September 23, 2004, the DuPage Region of the American Cancer Society awarded the inaugural "Kristen Passanisi Youth Service Award" to Meredith Schilsky for her exemplary leadership over the past year in support of the American Cancer Society. This award will be given annually in Kristen's honor.
        The award was presented by Chris Hensley, Regional Vice President of the American Cancer Society's DuPage regional office. Please click here to read Mr. Hensley's presentation remarks. Click here to read a newspaper article about the event published in the Wheaton Sun on October 15, 2004.

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    Kristen went on a seven day cruise of the South Carribean in July, 2002. The cruise was sponsored by the MAKE A WISH FOUNDATION. Kristen was accompanied by her friend Lisa, her mother Jerrie Baumgartner (pictured with Kristen), and her Stepfather, Tom Baumgartner. They flew from Chicago to San Juan, Puerto Rico on the morning of July 17, where they boarded the ship. They visited four South Carribean ports during the cruise.

    Kristen was chosen to make opening remarks and lead the "Survivors Lap" at the AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY'S "Relay For Life" event held at Naperville North High School on June 7, 2002. Kristen was also a member of the organizing committee.

    On March 2, 2002, Kristen was honored by The Jim Maentanis and The DuPage County Area Project charity fundraiser as one of their "Special Heros Of The Evening" along with Jimmy Pesoli, President of "Kids Fight Cancer". Special guests included firefighters who participated at the WTC disaster rescue. Pictured with Kristen is Jimmy Pesoli and Carolina Costello, organizer of the event.

    In November, 2000 Kristen was honored at a fund raiser by the "Italian AmericanPolice Association Of Illinois" as one of their "Heros".

        The Montel Williams show, taped on Wednesday, August 22, 2001 in New York, featured Kristen as a stem cell transplant recipient. The show was aired August 29, 2001 in Naperville and other areas around the country.

Newspaper Articles About Kristen

Community Rallies Around Young Cancer Patient NAPERVILLE SUN - February 9, 2001
Teen Braces For New Treatment Of Rare Cancer DAILY HERALD - March 7, 2001
McDonald's Cooks Up Big Order Of Help DAILY HERALD - March 9, 2001
Fund-raiser For Student With Cancer DAILY HERALD - March 16, 2001
Naperville Rallies To Combat Cancer DAILY HERALD - April 7, 2001
Cause For Decoration NAPERVILLE SUN - May 18, 2001
Downtown Gone To The Dogs For Charity DAILY HERALD - May 18, 2001
Salon To Donate Profits To Help Cancer Victim DAILY HERALD - May 19, 2001
Student Demonstrates 'Locks Of Love' For Friend DAILY HERALD - May 21, 2001
Naperville Rallies For Young Cancer Victim CHICAGO TRIBUNE - May 23, 2001
Auction To Benefit Teen In Need Of Your Help DAILY HERALD June 5, 2001
Huskies On Parade Effort Turns Dogs Into Dollars NAPERVILLE SUN - June 13, 2001
Luminaries Symbolize Hope For North Student DAILY HERALD - May 12, 2004
Relay To Raise Money, Support For Those Touched By Cancer NAPERVILLE SUN - May 20, 2004
Naperville Teen Loses Her Battle With Cancer NAPERVILLE SUN - May 26, 2004
North Mourns Cancer Death Of Graduate DAILY HERALD - May 27, 2004
Loved Ones Pay Tribute To Teen Claimed By CancerDAILY HERALD - May 30, 2004
Naperville North Seniors Show Solidarity At Commencement NAPERVILLE SUN - June 4, 2004
Volunteers honored by American Cancer Society WHEATON SUN - October 15, 2004

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