At 2 years old, Gabriella was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Thanks to the work of her doctors, Gabriella had part of her tumor removed and it is now in a stable state, but the surgery left her unable to walk. Now that Gabriella is six-years-old and has made an amazing recovery, she is finally ready for her wish to meet the Pope to be granted.
Gabriella's entire family traveled to Rome for her wish to meet and be blessed by the Pope. The trip offered much-needed family time away from the hospital, providing memorable experiences that Gabriella and her family will always cherish and remember.
Gabriella absolutely loved the Pope. Her parents were moved to tears as the Pope knelt down and gently kissed Gabriella's forehead.
Gabriella felt so humbled and awed.
Aside from meeting the Pope, the family had the opportunity to visit other amazing sights in Rome. They traveled to many different cities, visiting the Saints they had prayed to for Gabriella’s recovery. St. Gabriel in the Abruzzo region and St. Anthony of Padova were two of their favorite spots.