Raising funds and awareness in child’s memory
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Ward
3 Civic Hero Award presented to the Fiorini family
When
Jordana Fiorini passed away at the tender age of 10 years old on Jan. 22, 2016,
her family knew they needed to commemorate her life and love of rainbows, and
strive to find a cure for Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (DIPG). They created
Jordana’s Rainbows to bring awareness to childhood cancers and raise funds for
DIPG research. In recognition of their efforts, the Fiorini family - Luciano and
Alison, and their sons, Lucas and Laurence - were presented with the Civic Hero Award for Ward 3
by Vaughan Council yesterday.
Through
the campaign’s Facebook and Instagram pages, followers share emotional stories,
inspiring rainbow sightings and social media challenges. Some local businesses
have gotten involved by selling rainbow promotions in support of the organization.
To date, the Fiorini family has helped raise more than $270,000 for the
SickKids Foundation. All proceeds go to neurosurgeon Dr. Peter Dirks and his
research team at The Hospital for Sick Children.
The
Fiorini family has also generously contributed to have the Velmar Downs Park
revitalized and renamed Jordana Fiorini Rainbow Park. This special
homage to Jordana will be enjoyed by the entire community for years to come.
QUOTES
“It
is truly moving to see a family pull together with such elegance, grace and
dignity when experiencing the loss of a child. The Fiorinis have demonstrated
compassion, love and understanding for others by dedicating themselves to raise
funds in Jordana’s name. A beautiful and kind child, Jordana will always be
remembered for her joyful and caring spirit. The funds they raise for Jordana’s
Rainbows are the manifestation of the family’s collective efforts and spirit of
generosity to help others. I offer my sincere congratulations for being
recognized as Civic Heroes.”
-Mayor
Maurizio Bevilacqua
“Luciano,
Alison and their sons, Lucas and Laurence, have created a wonderful way to honour
Jordana. The loss of a child or a sibling is unimaginable. I commend the Fiorini
family for bringing awareness to this rare and devastating disease, and raising
funds for critical research. I hope we all think of Jordana and make a
meaningful contribution the next time we see a rainbow.”
-Ward
3 Councillor Rosanna DeFrancesca
QUICK FACTS
- The Civic Hero Award is presented annually to residents from each of Vaughan’s five wards.
- The awards recognize outstanding achievement and individual contributions to the community.
LEARN MORE
- City of Vaughan Civic Hero Awards webpage