Swirls Around the World

Swirls Around the World began 7 years ago by our family in memory of Matthew “Swirls” Cirelli, our son, nephew and cousin, who passed away after a courageous battle with Ewing sarcoma at the age of 19. Our mission was to continue Matthew’s journey through the travels of yellow “Swirls Strong” wristbands that Matthew had made before his passing. As we have watched Swirls travel the world and become part of the pediatric cancer community, we have been inspired to expand Swirls Around the World into a foundation to incorporate Matthew’s core values and to honor his legacy by creating a lasting impact.

Every year, over 16,000 children in the United States and 300,000 children worldwide are diagnosed with cancer, with survival rates ranging from <1% to 90% depending on the type of tumor. These statistics are known to the public, but what is not seen is the toll and impact cancer has on families, communities, and hospitals around the world.

Matthew made it his mission each day to pay it forward, and we have adapted his mission and values into the Swirls Around the World Foundation. Our foundations mission is to pay it forward through raising awareness and education about Ewing sarcoma, funding college scholarships for seniors attending Matthew’s high school, supporting individuals and families battling Ewing sarcoma by sending special care packages each month, and starting a quarterly care package donation program at MGH Pediatric Hematology-Oncology Clinic, where Matthew was treated.

This year with the impact of COVID-19, fundraising for our foundation has been a challenge. With your generous donation, we can continue Matthew’s legacy by providing more scholarships, supporting individuals and their families affected by Ewing sarcoma and other cancers, and to ultimately find a cure for Ewing sarcoma through research funding and clinical trials.