Bridgewater Tween Steps Baskstage With Jonas Brothers

BRIDGEWATER, NJ — Bridgewater 12-year-old Isabel "Izzy" Rita, an aspiring singer, actor, and dancer, experienced a moment she will remember forever when she went backstage for a private meet-and-greet with the Jonas Brothers.

"When I found out we were going to the concert, I couldn't wait to meet them. I was so nervous while we were waiting, but once we got in to see them, they were SO kind," said Izzy.

This moment was especially special for Izzy, who has her own battles.

Just before her first birthday, Izzy was diagnosed with ganglioglioma, a rare spinal cord tumor, and she underwent a 10-hour spinal cord surgery.

By her second birthday, she had completed 42 rounds of chemotherapy. Izzy has been a patient at Children’s Specialized Hospital for years, receiving physical and occupational therapies.

The journey left Izzy without the ability to walk, but at Children’s Specialized Hospital, she built back her strength, learned to walk, and reclaimed her childhood.

Now Izzy is thriving and following her passion for performing. She will take the stage this holiday season in A Christmas Carol at PAC NYC.

"I knew that Nick and Joe had been on Broadway, so it was nice that I got to share with them that I'll be making my off-Broadway debut in A Christmas Carol on Sunday. Nick said that that was his first show too!" said Izzy.

Izzy's mom, Sonia Rita, said, "It was an incredible experience; it was an amazing show with some really great guests."

"She really had such a blast, and they were so engaged when chatting with her," said Rita of Izzy's meet and greet with the Jonas Brothers.

"Izzy is a true inspiration, never letting anything stand in her way," said Alissa Memoli, President and Chief Development Officer at Children’s Specialized Hospital Foundation. "Moments like tonight remind us that every child, even those with unique health challenges, can reach for the stars…and catch them! We are incredibly grateful to the Jonas Brothers and Children’s Miracle Network for this incredible opportunity."

For more information about Children’s Specialized Hospital Foundation and how you can support kids like Izzy, visit www.give2csh.org.

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