Rocco Sivolella

Rocco Sivolella, a beloved 15-year-old freshman at Wayne Valley High School, embarked on a courageous journey in January 2022 when he was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML). Despite the daunting nature of his diagnosis, Rocco faced his treatments head-on with unwavering resolve and a positive attitude. His days were spent at NYU Hassenfeld

Children’s Hospital in Manhattan, where he underwent chemotherapy treatments for nearly four months. Despite the challenges and the physical
toll of his treatment, Rocco never complained, returning home for brief respites between rounds of chemotherapy.

Hope blossomed when it was determined that Rocco would undergo a bone marrow transplant upon completing chemotherapy. However, fate intervened cruelly as his cancer aggressively returned mere weeks before the scheduled transplant, leaving no further options for treatment. On May 17, 2022, the world mourned the loss of Rocco, a bright light extinguished far too soon.

Rocco's impact on those around him was profound. His kindness, infectious smile, and love for sports, particularly his devotion to the NY Yankees and NY Giants, endeared him to all who knew him. He found solace in the music of the Red Hot Chili Peppers and cherished moments spent with his family, friends, and girlfriend.

In honor of Rocco's memory, Remembering Rocco was established in 2022. Additionally, the Rocco Sivolella Scholarship was created to honor his legacy and support students from Wayne Valley High School and Wayne Hills High School. Rocco's legacy lives on through the lessons of strength, love, kindness, and respect that he imparted to everyone he encountered, leaving an enduring impact on the world.