We are heartbroken to share the sudden and shocking news that our beloved mom, wife, teacher, sister, aunt, and friend, Shari Piteo, has been diagnosed with late-stage glioblastoma, an aggressive and fast-moving form of brain cancer. This diagnosis has turned our world upside down, but she is facing it the way she’s faced every challenge in life—with strength, grace, and unwavering love.

For 37 years, Shari dedicated her life to teaching special education, shaping the lives of countless 5th graders with her kindness, patience, and passion. She retired just recently, looking forward to enjoying time with her loving husband of 37 years, Randy, and celebrating the next chapter of life as she prepares to watch her daughter, Marissa, marry her soon-to-be son-in-law, Evan, continue adventures, travel, spend time with family and friends, and enjoy the beach.

Shari is the heart and soul of our family. She’s the kindest, sweetest, most genuine person you could ever meet. Her laugh is contagious, her heart is enormous, and her spirit is full of light. She can be found reading on the beach at Watch Hill, RI,  the beach in Ogunquit, Maine, watching I Love Lucy, hiking in Vermont, spending time with her cats, shopping with her daughter, enjoying dinner and a glass of Riesling or an Aperol Spritz with friends and family, and dancing with a live band.

She adores her cats, has a special place in her heart for lions and tigers, and is always up for a trip to Watch Hill, a shopping day, or a Southern rock playlist on the radio. Her favorite color is blue, her favorite food is Italian, and her favorite movie is The Sound of Music—a perfect reflection of her love for music, beauty, and meaning.

Now, we are in a race against time to explore clinical trials and advanced treatments that could offer her hope. Glioblastoma is relentless, and traditional treatment options are limited. Promising clinical trials exist, but many of them come with high out-of-pocket costs and travel expenses not covered by insurance. We are determined to do everything we can to give her the best chance at more time, more memories, and more life.

We are asking for your help—whether it’s through a donation, a share, a prayer, or words of support. Every single act of kindness makes a difference. Funds raised will go directly toward medical treatments, clinical trial costs, travel expenses, and supporting our family as we navigate this difficult journey together.

Shari has given her heart to so many throughout her life. Now it’s our turn to give back to her.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for standing with us.