Inspiration Charlee Citera and Her Day at the Staten Island Zoo
On Thursday, August 14th, I got the pleasure of spending a very special day at the Staten Island Zoo with a very special girl. 9-year-old Charlee Citera is an Annadale native, animal lover, gymnast, softball player, and all-around amazing young girl.
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Charlee’s Story
Last September, Charlee Citera attended what she and her parents thought would be a routine checkup; however, after an unusual bloodwork result came up, their lives were completely changed. Through further testing, it was discovered that Charlee had acute myeloid leukemia (AML), a rare and aggressive blood cancer that affects the bone marrow and blood cells.
She was admitted to SIUH’s Brian Halpin Pediatric Cancer Center, part of the Florina Cancer Center, where she began a rigorous regimen of chemotherapy that would span several months and include five cycles. Acute Myeloid Leukemia can be unpredictable, and the treatment process can take a toll both physically and emotionally. However, Charlee approached each hospital stay with incredible bravery, often lifting her parents’ spirits with her cheerful disposition. Against all odds, she responded positively to the treatment and is now in remission. She diligently continues her follow-up care in an effort to remain cancer-free.
In May, Charlee was named the Patient Representative for the 2025 Northwell Walk to Raise Health on Staten Island, an event dedicated to supporting the Florina Cancer Center and its pediatric program. Her radiant smile and personality were beaming during the opening ceremony at Midland Beach. Charlee joined hundreds of local residents in advocating for pediatric cancer care. Just days later, she celebrated yet another significant achievement: her official discharge from SIUH, celebrated with a heartfelt “Clap-out” through a hallway where nurses, doctors, and staff who had supported her from the very beginning cheered her on.
A Dream Day at the Zoo
The Staten Island University Hospital teamed up with the Staten Island Zoo to give Charlee and her family a private tour, during which she could get up close and personal with some of her favorite animals. This was the perfect collaboration, considering Charlee hopes to become a veterinarian one day. Charlee arrived at the SI Zoo alongside her mother, Jaime Citera, father, Thomas Citera, and sister, Kayla Citera. Her energy lifted up everyone there, excited for the day.
Sloths, Crows & Pigs Oh My!
The fun kicked off right away at the “Critter Corner”! The Staten Island Zoo’s Director of Education, Jessica Hartman, introduced Charlee and her family to “Dunkin,” the resident two-toed sloth. The girls got to pet Dunkin, feed him some of his favorite snacks, and learn about his everyday life. Up next, the girls got to meet an American Crow, “Harriet,” and tossed treats in the air for him to catch. Charlee threw her arms up for joy as Harriet caught the treat she tossed right in the air. After the Critter Corner, a highlight was definitely meeting Polly the Pig! As Charlee and her sister Kayla were admiring Polly, Charlee said Polly looks just like an Oreo, with his pattern of hair.
Up Close and Personal
Charlee is truly one of a kind and super brave as she sat ready to meet some animals face to face. Poppy the rabbit was a fun, fluffy animal that the girls got to pet and learn all about her fabulous long lashes and whiskers. Next on deck was Miles, an Eastern Box Turtle! This species of turtle can be found all over Staten Island. The girls really enjoyed Miles’ shell and how unique the pattern is on his back.
Have you ever heard of a 9-year-old jumping up in excitement at the sight of a snake? Well, now you have! Charlee was so excited when Jessica pulled out, “Slytherin”. Slytherin is a Kenyan Sand Boa that absolutely won the hearts of Charlee and Kayla. The excitement continued when Jessic revealed a bearded dragon named “Ru”. This reptile sat snug with the girls as they admired its unique texture of skin texture and colors.
Last but not least, Charlee got to meet the Staten Island Zoo’s veterinarian, Julian Rivera. She asked Julian about the most vicious animals he had ever had to work with and also told him about her dog Bourbon, an adorable golden doodle. Afterwards, Charlee and her family got to enjoy the rest of their day at the zoo, enjoying all the amazing exhibits.
A Community of Care
This day truly demonstrated how special the Staten Island community is. The collaboration of the Staten Island University Hospital, the Staten Island Zoo, and Charlee’s family was executed with the utmost care.
Charlee is the epitome of strength. Although she is only nine years old, she taught me so many things today about what it means to be brave. I hope this story can remind everyone that even the smallest warriors can hold enormous power.
Thank you to Staten Island University Hospital, the Staten Island Zoo, and Charlee’s family.
