Berea’s little warrior at peace
Ariella Cocorozis, who fought courageously against a Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (DIPG) brain tumour, lost her battle to the disease.
HEAVEN gained another angel on Friday, 31 May.
Berea’s little warrior, Ariella Cocorozis, who fought courageously against a Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (DIPG) brain tumour for the past eight months, lost her battle to the disease.
Commenting on the tragic loss, family spokesperson, Tassie Kougianos, said: “Ariella passed away at 2pm on 31 May after fighting DIPG for over eight months. This should not be happening to a five year old. Many people do not know of the lack of help for children with DIPG. Most do not even know that DIPG exists. Ariella’s parents are shattered but have made a beautiful choice to honour and celebrate their daughter’s life. They are incredibly grateful for every moment they have had with Ariella.”
Ariella’s heartbroken father, John, told Berea Mail that she had slipped away peacefully.
“It was heartbreaking, but it was her time to go,” he said.
“We thank everyone in the community for their support over the past eight months, and for their continued support. People have been amazing and we are so grateful for everyone’s help,” said John.
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A post on her fundraising Facebook page, stated: “On Friday 31 May 2019, our precious Ariella spread her angel wings and decided to fly home to the Lord. If love, hope and kindness could have saved our girl, she would have lived forever. But we know she is in good company, running free and being cared for by all in heaven who also love her. Especially John’s eldest sister, his father, and Emi‘s parents. We know she is filling them with love, her little laugh, contagious energy and incredible soul. The way she always did for us. We are so grateful for the unwavering support received. Every visit, prayer and kind-hearted contribution is treasured and will never be forgotten. Let us forever remember how fiercely she fought, how deeply she loved, her warm hugs and spunky wit! We will keep her in our hearts and treasure her forever.”
By the more than 700 comments of this post, it is obvious that this little soul was loved by so many, and impacted many lives through her story of courage and determination.
Tassie said a garden celebration was being planned to honour Ariella’s vibrant and gorgeous personality, as she was always ‘glittery and fun.’
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