“For many I might be an inspiration, but for myself, I’m simply just Swirls”
– Matthew Cirelli
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“For many I might be an inspiration, but for myself, I’m simply just Swirls”
– Matthew Cirelli
Matt’s Legacy
Matthew was diagnosed with Ewing’s Sarcoma in December of 2011, but this did not stop him from living life to the fullest.
He faced the cancer head on and did not let it defeat him. Instead of saying “Why me?”, Matt said “Try me”.
Matt continued to go through life with a smile on his face. He was grateful for every day, and never complained. He was an incredible son, brother, friend, cousin, nephew, and student. He is a hero, he is an inspiration, he is Swirls.
And for us, Swirls is a legacy.
What is Ewing Sarcoma?
Ewing Sarcoma is a primary bone cancer that originates in the bone cells. It is often found in the legs, pelvis, ribs, arm, or spine. Ewing’s Sarcoma is the second most common type of bone cancer in children and is mostly found in children and young adults between the ages of 5-20 years-old.
Ewing Sarcoma is caused by a rearrangement between chromosomes #11 and #20. The rearrangement of these chromosomes results in a change of position and function of genes, causing an abnormal fusion of the genes, called a fusion transcript. The abnormal fusion transcript involves two genes called EWS and FLI1.
Though Ewing’s Sarcoma is primarily found in the bones of the legs, arms, trunk, pelvis, back, or head, the cancer can spread to areas of soft tissue, such as the heart and lungs.
What are symptoms of Ewing Sarcoma?
- Pain and/or swelling around the site of tumor
- Fever
- Weight loss/decreased appetite
- Fatigue
- Numbness, tingling, paralysis
How can Ewing Sarcoma be treated?
The first step in treating Ewing is chemotherapy. After chemo, surgery can be done to remove the majority or all of the tumor. The next step in treatment is radiation therapy, which kills or decreases cancer cells that cannot be removed by surgery.
Learn more about Matt’s legacy:
The Swirls Around the World Mission
The Swirls Around the World Foundation is a nonprofit organization, honoring the life and legacy of Matthew “Swirls” Cirelli who passed away at the age of 19 after battling Ewing Sarcoma.
The mission of the foundation is to honor Matthew’s legacy by embracing his courage, spirit, and kindness by paying it forward.
The foundation pays it forward by supporting children and young adults battling cancer by sending Swirls Packages of Love, organizing special Swirls Warrior Days for children and their families, scholarships, donations to Boston and local hospitals, as well as supporting other nonprofit foundations.
Impact Initiatives & Events
Our Impact Initiatives and fundraising events turn compassion into action by bringing hope, comfort, and joy to warriors and their families.
Swirls Packages of Love
Delivers comfort, joy, and support to children and young adults battling cancer through thoughtful care packages that remind them they are never alone. Learn More
Swirls Warrior Days
Memorial Scholarship
Annual Golf Tournament
Brings the community together for a day of golf, friendship, and giving back, raising funds to support children and young adults bravely battling cancer. Learn More
Annual City Pub Crawl
Brings friends, family, and supporters together for a fun-filled day across Boston, raising funds and awareness to support children and young adults battling cancer. Learn More
CureFest for Childhood Cancer
Uniting with families and organizations from around the world to raise awareness, advocate for funding, and stand together in the fight to end childhood cancer. Learn More
Swirling with the Girls Pop Up Party
A magical Swirls tradition, in partnership with Pop Up Party MA & RI, giving young warriors a special day of fun, friendship, pampering, and unforgettable memories. Learn More
Boston Bruins Hockey Fights Cancer
Boston Bruins Hockey Fights Cancer Night is a meaningful tradition filled with family, friendship, and unforgettable memories for our warrior families. Learn More
Fundraise with our Swirls Team
Fundraise with Swirls and help turn your support into meaningful impact for children and families affected by childhood cancer. Learn More
Swirls Packages of Love
Delivers comfort and joy to children and young adults battling cancer through thoughtful care packages that remind them they are never alone. Learn More
Swirls Warrior Days
Memorial Scholarship
Annual City Pub Crawl
Brings friends, family, and supporters together for a fun-filled day across Boston, raising funds and awareness to support children and young adults battling cancer. Learn More
Annual Golf Tournament & Dinner
Brings the community together for a day of golf, friendship, and giving back, raising funds to support children and young adults bravely battling cancer. Learn More
CureFest for Childhood Cancer
Uniting with families and organizations from around the world to raise awareness, advocate for funding, and stand together to end childhood cancer. Learn More
Swirling with the Girls Pop Up Party
A magical Swirls tradition, in partnership with Pop Up Party MA & RI, giving young warriors a special day of fun, friendship, pampering, and unforgettable memories. Learn More
Bruins Hockey Fights Cancer
Boston Bruins Hockey Fights Cancer Night is a meaningful tradition filled with family, friendship, and unforgettable memories for our warrior families. Learn More
2025 Swirls Year in Review
This video captures the heart of the Swirls Around the World movement in 2025 – a year defined by courage, community, and hope. From heartfelt moments of remembrance to inspiring acts of support, people across the globe came together to stand with those affected by cancer.
Each swirl represents a story, a life, and a shared commitment to keep pushing forward until cures are found. It’s a powerful reminder that when a community unites around a cause, even the smallest actions can create a wave of impact.
Events
Meaningful events that bring our community together to create special moments for children impacted by cancer.
Gift Shop
Shop gifts and merchandise that help support our mission and make a difference.
Connect
Want to get involved? Contact us and be part of continuing Swirl’s mission of hope and support for those battling cancer.
