Some stories are especially difficult to write, and this is one of them.

Our next recipient is someone who is deeply loved by so many in our hometown of Guilford. Sharon Craig Criscuolo, along with her siblings, has been a longtime friend of the Dostie family. When Paul was diagnosed with Glioblastoma, Sharon was there. She stood beside our family, offering love, encouragement, and unwavering support throughout his journey. After Paul's passing, she continued to be there—volunteering at his medical fundraiser and every KARE FEST since the Foundation began.

This year was supposed to be no different.

Instead, just two weeks before our 5th Annual KARE FEST, Sharon received the devastating diagnosis of Glioblastoma. Two days before the event, she underwent a craniotomy to remove her brain tumor.

It breaks our hearts to introduce Sharon as a KARE Foundation recipient. Yet it is also an incredible privilege to now stand beside someone who has spent so many years standing beside others.

Sharon and her husband, Jay, have deep roots in Guilford. Both grew up here. Jay recently retired after a long career teaching in Guilford and a neighboring community, while Sharon has been a familiar and welcoming face in the office of one of our town's middle schools. Their family has touched countless lives, making the news of Sharon's diagnosis almost impossible for many to comprehend. Once again, this rare and devastating disease has struck another beloved family along Connecticut's shoreline.

What makes this diagnosis even more shocking is that Sharon was healthy, active, and living life as usual.

On the day everything changed, Sharon was getting ready to attend a family graduation with her mother and sister. She told her mom she wasn't feeling well and decided not to drive, instead climbing into the back seat of the car. When her sister, Melissa, arrived, she immediately sensed something was terribly wrong. Within moments, they called 911. Sharon was experiencing a seizure and was rushed to the hospital.

After a series of tests, doctors discovered a tumor in her occipital lobe.

Just as it had been with Paul, the neurosurgeon feared it was Glioblastoma. A few days later, Sharon underwent surgery to remove the tumor, and pathology confirmed their worst fear.

Glioblastoma.

Those who have walked this road understand how one word can instantly change everything. Sharon had witnessed Paul's journey firsthand, making the diagnosis even more frightening for her, Jay, and everyone who loves her.

Sharon and Jay have built a beautiful family together. They are the proud parents of two sons, Jon and Noah and a wonderful daughter-in-law, Ellen. They have 2 precious grandchildren, including a new baby who was welcomed into the world on July 8. These joyful moments are now intertwined with an unimaginable battle.

We are grateful that Sharon's neurosurgeon was able to remove the visible tumor. However, because it was located in the occipital lobe, her vision has been affected. As anyone familiar with Glioblastoma knows, surgery is only the beginning. This aggressive cancer sends microscopic cells deep into the brain, making ongoing treatment critical.

Amid the heartbreak, there is an encouraging piece of news.

Sharon's tumor tested MGMT methylated, which means it is more likely to respond to radiation and chemotherapy than many other Glioblastoma tumors. It is a blessing we are holding tightly to, and one that gives Sharon, her family, and all of us hope as she begins treatment.

Jay has been tirelessly researching every option and advocating for Sharon every step of the way, determined to ensure she receives the very best care possible. Together, they are facing this journey with incredible courage, strength, and faith.

Although it is bittersweet beyond words, the KARE Foundation and Paul's family are honored to now walk beside the Criscuolo family—just as Sharon once walked beside us. We will be there to support them however we can throughout this journey.

To our amazing donors, thank you. Your generosity allows us to surround families like the Criscuolos with love, support, and hope when they need it most.

We know Paul is watching over Sharon, cheering her on every step of the way.

Years ago, Sharon stood beside Paul during his fight. Today, it is our turn to stand beside Sharon. That's what KARE is all about—neighbors helping neighbors, families lifting families, and hope carrying us through even the hardest days. Together, we will continue to choose hope.