05/17/2026
Mayor Charlie Sisitsky & the Framingham City Council have declared today also DIPG Awareness Day in honor of the late Devin Suau.
WHEREAS, Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (DIPG) is a rare, aggressive, and inoperable pediatric brain cancer that primarily
affects children between the ages of 5 and 10; and
WHEREAS, DIPG is the second most common malignant brain tumor in children and the leading cause of death from pediatric
brain tumors, with a median survival of approximately nine months and a five-year survival rate of less than one percent; and
WHEREAS, approximately 200 to 400 children in the United States are diagnosed with DIPG each year, devastating families
and communities while highlighting the urgent need for increased research funding and treatment options; and
WHEREAS, DIPG Awareness Day has been observed annually for a decade on May 17 since 2016, to raise awareness & support
affected families and
WHEREAS, the City of Framingham remembers with deep respect and love the life of Devin Suau, who courageously battled
DIPG and passed away on October 20, 2017, days shy of his seventh birthday, leaving a lasting legacy of strength, compassion,
and community spirit; and
WHEREAS, Devin’s mother, Christine Soutter, has demonstrated extraordinary courage and leadership in the face of
unimaginable loss, becoming a tireless advocate for children and families impacted by DIPG, and helping to elevate awareness
and inspire action both locally and beyond; and
WHEREAS, the Foundation continues to honor Devin’s memory by raising national and international
awareness, supporting research efforts, and encouraging acts of kindness, service, and hope within the community; and
WHEREAS, Devin’s legacy reminds us each day to face challenges with courage, to support one another, and to seek
opportunities, both big and small, to make a difference in the lives of others;
NOW, THEREFORE, the Mayor and the City Council of the City of Framingham do hereby proclaim May 17, 2026 as DIPG
Awareness Day in the City of Framingham, and urge all residents to join in raising awareness, supporting families, and
advocating for research to find a cure for DIPG.
The Memorial Building will be lit green TONIGHT, May 17.
Pictured is Mayor Charlie Sisitsky and Christine Soutter.
