SIT DOWN WITH STEVE: Isaiah Bozza Overcomes Challenges, Continues to Defy the Odds

Isaiah Bozza talks with Steve Wilson in the latest edition of 'Sit Down with Steve'

WATCH: Isaiah Bozza talks with Steve Wilson in the latest edition of “Sit Down with Steve.” Isaiah, who was diagnosed with cancer at age nine, is a sports enthusiast and talks with Wilson about the Orlando Magic, and some of his favorite players.

BREVARD COUNTY, FLORIDA – At one time, Isaiah Bozza was a typical little boy. He did everything you would expect a boy to do. He loved sports, he played youth football and basketball, he ran, jumped, and played just like you would expect. Then it happened.

At age nine, Isaiah began having sight problems and headaches. When he failed a vision test, his mom, Marielle Bozza, knew there was a problem, she just did not know what.

After two years of visiting multiple doctors, Isaiah was finally diagnosed with a rare, aggressive brain tumor. Even while receiving treatment, Isaiah continued to be active.

Unfortunately, at age 15, he had a stroke. Prior to then, he was used to bouncing back after surgery, but after the stroke, it was much more difficult.

As happens too often, when a child is diagnosed with cancer, friends tend to shy away. However, when that occurs, it makes it even more difficult for a young person battling cancer to deal with everything that is being thrown their way.

That is when they need friends, and their support, the most. This is what happened to Isaiah. He lost a number of friends, probably because they did not know how to handle Isaiah’s illness.

To date, Isaiah has had 38 surgeries. He is now a 22-year-old young man, with dreams. He is still a sports enthusiast and enjoys watching classic NBA games.

His favorite team is the Orlando Magic. In fact, the Magic have been very supportive of Isaiah over the years. He has met most of the players and has been invited to multiple games.

Family has become increasingly important to Isaiah. Prior to COVID-19, he enjoyed visiting relatives in Tampa as often as possible. Now, he only gets out of the house when it is necessary.

When talking about how important family is to Isaiah, his mom said, “he is very family-oriented.” She went on to say, “he has a special bond with his brother, Jaiyden. He loves sports, but he loves his family a lot. He is a very spiritual person.”

Isaiah also had a special relationship with his grandfather, Robert Bozza. Although Mr. Bozza passed away in December 2017, Isaiah feels like he is always with him. He calls him is “Guardian Angel in Heaven.”

In many ways, Isaiah is a typical young man. He loves sports. He enjoys reading. He loves comedies. His favorite movie is My Cousin Vinnie.

The only difference between Isaiah and most young people is the battle he has endured since age nine. This has made Isaiah Bozza the man he is today, one that is to be admired for his courage, strength and determination.

Similar Stories