Meet the Dell’Omo family.
Autumn is a vibrant 16-year-old sophomore with a creative spirit and a heart far bigger than her years. She lives for hair and makeup, constantly experimenting with new looks and dreaming of turning that passion into her future. She loves spending time with friends, heading to the beach, watching the sunset over the ocean, and grabbing her favorite Dunkin’ Donuts Refreshers. Autumn has also cheered for years, and while the fall of 2025 should have been filled with football games, team spirit, and all the fun that comes with being a teenager, her season was cut short when her life took an unexpected turn.

Autumn’s cancer journey began quietly. About three years ago, a small bump appeared on her neck. Doctors initially believed it was a swollen lymph node, a common and harmless condition. Over time, however, it continued to grow. By mid-2025, it became uncomfortable and painful. After strongly advocating for further testing, Autumn underwent surgery on November 25, 2025, at Jersey Shore Medical Center, where her salivary gland was removed. Pathology confirmed the diagnosis, Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma, a very rare cancer, especially in children. At that point, the family was transferred into the care of the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. While this cancer is treatable, it can be aggressive and has the potential to return, meaning Autumn is facing a lifelong journey.

The current treatment plan includes 6 to 8 weeks of radiation, with final treatment decisions pending the results of Autumn’s PET scan scheduled for January 14th. If there are any signs that the cancer has spread, chemotherapy will also be part of her treatment. Autumn has already missed a significant amount of school due to appointments and follow-ups, and her family is working closely with Middletown North to transition her to virtual learning, with no return date yet determined.

Autumn’s diagnosis has impacted her entire family. Rebecca is a stay-at-home mom who will be focusing on Autumn’s care around the clock. Rob, the sole provider, will be reducing work hours and taking time off to be present for Autumn and their younger children. This is especially challenging as Rob is also managing his own serious health battle with advanced mastocytosis, a chronic blood cancer.

Between medical bills, frequent travel for treatment, reduced income, childcare needs, and the possibility of temporary housing near the hospital to avoid exhausting daily commutes, the financial strain is significant. The family is also facing the emotional challenge of being separated for a season, with their 7-year-old staying with grandparents while Autumn receives daily treatments in Philadelphia.

Despite everything, the Dell’Omo family is not backing down. They face adversity head-on and continue to climb the mountain together. Autumn embodies that strength every single day, and her family firmly believes that cancer does not stand a chance.

Any support, whether through a donation or simply sharing Autumn’s story, means more than words can express. It helps lift some of the burden so this family can focus on what matters most, caring for their children and helping Autumn through treatment.

If you'd prefer to send a check for Autumn’s family, please send it to:

Infinite Love for Kids
c/o: AUTUMN STRONG
P.O. Box 4064
Middletown, NJ 07748

Thank you, and more updates to come!

Please be advised that, while Infinite Love for Kids is a 501 (c) (3) charity, the IRS does not allow tax deductions for donations directed to a specific person or family. Please click here for more information, or consult your tax advisor.

Autumn Strong

Help Autumn and her Family in their Fight Against Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma!