Alessia's Memorial
In Loving Memory of
Alessia Maria Melillo
Alessia was born on November 20, 2017, bringing immense joy and light into the lives of her family from the very beginning. Though small in size, she was a mighty fighter, facing life’s challenges with incredible strength, courage, and an ever-present smile. Alessia was known for her sweet spirit, infectious giggle, and deep empathy—touching everyone she met with her kindness and love.
She shared a special, unbreakable bond with her twin brother Giovanni and older brother Cole, who she adored wholeheartedly. A beloved daughter and best friend to her mother DeAnna, and the center of her father Greg's world, Alessia brought warmth, laughter, and love into every moment. Her playful, caring nature and unwavering joy made her truly one of a kind.
Though her time on Earth was far too short, the impact she made will last forever. Alessia will be remembered as a beautiful soul who showed us the true meaning of love, compassion, and bravery. She lives on in the hearts of those who loved her and in the light she brought into the world.
Alessia's Story
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On January 1, 2025, our lives changed forever.
Following an emergency trip to the hospital, Alessia underwent a 10-hour, life-saving surgery after doctors discovered a mass in her brain. Over the next 16 days in the pediatric ICU, and through two additional brain surgeries, our brave girl fought with unimaginable strength. When it was finally time to return home, we faced her diagnosis head-on.
Alessia was diagnosed with a Diffuse Midline Glioma in her Thalamus with Grade 4 Glioblastoma — a terminal and aggressive form of brain cancer. For 125 days, Alessia battled this cruel disease with courage, grace, and an unshakable smile. Despite the pain, she remained the same kind, loving, and joyful little girl we knew and adored.
On May 5, 2025, Alessia gained her angel wings.
Our journey was filled with more hardships than we can count, but we found strength in each other, in our community, and in the support of incredible organizations. In honor of Alessia’s beautiful spirit, we’ve created a memorial fund dedicated to carrying her light forward — by making a direct, positive impact on the lives of others, just as she always did.
Latest Updates & Events
Coming Soon: Alessia's Memorial Buddy Bench at Samuel J Preston Elementary School
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September 15, 2025 Back to School Gelato Day at Graziella's Market in memory of Alessia who loved school ! From 3:05pm-6:05pm all SJP students and staff can receive 1 free small gelato with the code name "Alessia"
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September 14, 2025 Alessia Strong team walks for the National Brain Tumor Society to help find a cure
Our Mission
Our mission is to raise funds in meaningful and diverse ways that create a direct, positive impact on individuals and our community.
Whether it’s providing a scholarship, building a new playground at a local school, or helping a family facing difficult times, we aim to bring hope and support where it’s needed most.
Organizations like Make-A-Wish made a profound difference in our lives, and we are inspired to offer that same kind of impact through Alessia’s memorial fund.
While we deeply value and support medical research — and regularly participate in "walks for research" with organizations dedicated to finding a cure — this fund is not focused on research. Instead, it’s dedicated to spreading the kindness, joy, and love that Alessia so freely gave during her beautiful, though far too short, life.
We want others to feel the warmth of Alessia’s spirit in every act of generosity this fund makes possible.