The life that inspired this foundation.
A joyful beginning.
Charles J. Mulieri, or Charlie as everyone called him, was born on August 9, 2022. He was a happy, healthy baby, just like his older sister Ava. He brought joy to the people around him from the very beginning.
A diagnosis that changed everything.
Just before his first birthday, Charlie was diagnosed with Chronic Granulomatous Disease, or CGD, after being hospitalized for an infection that most children would have easily fought off. CGD is a rare genetic immune disorder that makes it difficult for the body to properly fight certain bacteria and fungi, often leading to severe and life-threatening infections.
After Charlie's diagnosis, life changed quickly. He began taking multiple daily medications, along with regular injections, to reduce the severity and frequency of infections. Our family also had to make constant adjustments to reduce the risk of exposure. Simple childhood experiences suddenly carried risk. Life no longer felt easy or ordinary.
The little things Charlie loved.
Even with all of this, Charlie remained full of joy. He loved playing with his sister, his trucks, and his Little Tikes red car. He loved brown bears, animal crackers, and root beer lollipops. He had a contagious laugh and a bright smile that stayed with him through so much.
Charlie had a way of finding happiness in little things. That is part of what made him so special. He reminded everyone around him to notice small joys and hold onto them.
The hardest chapter.
Before turning two, Charlie had already been hospitalized nine times because of complications from CGD, in addition to many hospital visits for testing and monitoring. Because the only cure for CGD is a bone marrow transplant, Charlie was admitted to Johns Hopkins Hospital just before his second birthday.
He underwent chemotherapy, full-body radiation, and a stem cell transplant. Sadly, he experienced serious complications, including internal bleeding, multi-organ failure, and numerous infections. He spent months in the PICU before he tragically passed away.
Why this foundation exists.
The time we had with Charlie was far too short, but the impact he made on our family and friends was immeasurable. He taught us that life is precious and that joy can still be found in small things. Through this foundation, we hope to honor Charlie's life by helping other children and families facing similarly difficult journeys.
This work is deeply personal. It comes from love, grief, gratitude, and the belief that no family should have to walk through a child's medical crisis feeling alone.
Keep moving forward.
Keep moving forward.
Honor Charlie's legacy through meaningful support.
Every gift helps extend compassion and care to children and families facing a child's medical crisis.