Giulianna Noelle Troiano is nicknamed "Giulianna the Brave" and for good reason.  This little girl who is just 3-years-old and loves playing dress up, painting and eating pasta (her favorite food) has been bravely fighting cancer since she was diagnosed at  9 months of age.

Since Giulianna was just three weeks old, she was frequently at the doctor's office.  At first, it was determined that she was allergic to cow's milk, but several months later her weight began rapidly declining.  Despite several inconclusive tests, Giulianna's mother knew something was wrong.  Finally, at her 9 month checkup - her pediatrician found a large mass inside her abdomen.  A visit to Children's Hospital of Pennsylvania confirmed that Giulianna had an inoperable tumor that was Neuroblastoma.

Giulianna immediately started treatment that included multiple rounds of chemotherapy and surgery causing her to spend her first birthday in the hospital.  One month after her surgery, fluid in her lungs resulted in another hospital stay and surgery.  Unfortunately, six months later Giulianna relapsed requiring more rounds of chemotherapy and surgery on her second birthday.

Giulianna's mom Christy dreams of the day when Giulianna will beat her disease and can live a life without needles, medicine and grow out her hair like her big sister Francesca.  She marvels at her daughter who lives up to her nickname on a daily basis displaying strength, love and courage that is contagious to everyone who comes into contact with her strong willed little girl.  Most of all, her family hopes and prays that she continues to receive clear scans for the next four years so she can be considered cancer free.  

Christy Scuilli
Updated: April 2014