Kristin Tomasello’s Journey: From Childhood Challenges to Championing Philanthropy, Entrepreneurship, and Advocacy

Kristin Tomasello’s journey is a testament to resilience, compassion, and the power of giving back. From witnessing her father’s harrowing battle with Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) at a young age to becoming a philanthropist, entrepreneur, and author, Tomasello has turned life’s challenges into a mission to uplift others. Whether through her foundation, her eco-friendly skincare line, or her inspiring books, she is making an indelible impact on the world.

A Calling to Give Back

Tomasello’s philanthropic journey began at just 12 years old when she started fundraising for the American Cancer Society. The moment her father collapsed in front of her was a life-changing experience—one that revealed the fragility of life and the importance of community support.

During her father’s treatment, Tomasello witnessed firsthand the struggles of other patients who lacked a support system. This realization fueled her desire to make a difference. Fundraising was her way of stepping up, ensuring that no one had to fight alone. She later became one of her father’s caregivers, seeing him through a bone marrow transplant that ultimately saved his life. That experience shaped her lifelong dedication to helping others, particularly those battling illness or adversity.

The Kristin Tomasello Foundation: Creating Opportunities for Special Needs Individuals

Inspired by her experiences as a caregiver, Tomasello expanded her efforts beyond cancer support and into advocacy for individuals with special needs. At 15, she began volunteering with special needs communities and saw how creative expression could be a powerful tool for empowerment.

Her foundation’s latest initiative is an inclusive art center in Tampa, designed to provide individuals with special needs a space to express themselves through painting, music, and theater. The center’s goal is to break barriers, offering programs tailored to different abilities while fostering a sense of belonging. Tomasello envisions this as more than just a local initiative—it’s a movement that she hopes will inspire other communities to create similar spaces.

Costa Sea Suncare: A Commitment to Health and Sustainability

Tomasello’s entrepreneurial spirit led her to create Costa Sea Suncare, a skincare line dedicated to health and environmental sustainability. Having witnessed the devastating effects of cancer, she became passionate about creating products that are safe for both people and the planet.

Many sunscreens on the market claim to be “reef-safe,” yet still contain harmful chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate—ingredients linked to coral bleaching and potential health risks. Tomasello saw a need for greater transparency and took action. Costa Sea Suncare is free of harmful toxins, offering families a product they can trust. A portion of the brand’s proceeds goes toward her foundation, further solidifying her commitment to making a difference.

A Voice of Resilience: Inspiring Through Writing

Beyond her philanthropic and business ventures, Tomasello is also an author whose books center on faith, resilience, and personal growth. Her works, including Diamond Defender, God Enlightened Me, Celebration of Miracles, and her upcoming Pray, Give, Laugh: Life Through God’s Lens, share stories that inspire and uplift.

Her personal experiences—from nearly losing her father to enduring her own health scares—have shaped her perspective on life. A pivotal moment occurred in high school when she suffered a severe allergic reaction, breaking out in hives and struggling to breathe. That terrifying experience reinforced her belief in faith, perseverance, and the importance of finding strength in life’s most challenging moments.

Through her writing, Tomasello hopes to remind readers that even in their darkest times, they are never alone. Her books serve as a source of encouragement, urging people to trust in their journey and embrace the path laid out for them.

Finding Balance in Purpose

Juggling multiple roles—philanthropist, entrepreneur, author, and advocate—is no easy feat, but Tomasello remains grounded in faith. She credits her ability to balance her responsibilities to a strong sense of purpose and a supportive team.

She believes that true motivation doesn’t come from external success, but from staying connected to the reason behind her work. By prioritizing what truly matters and trusting in God’s timing, she has been able to expand her impact without feeling overwhelmed.

For Tomasello, success is not about recognition—it’s about making a lasting difference. Whether through her foundation, skincare brand, or books, she continues to uplift and inspire those around her.

Credits

• Social Media Team: Adheft Marketing (www.adheftmarketing.com)
• CostaSea Brand Consultants: Angie and Michael Boyd
• PR Team: Thom Brodeur, Ali Lee Glam, Carlos Velez, Rick Acevedo, Jeremy Kregar, PR Coaches, Kristen Dalton, Michelle McLean
• Photo Credits: Rick Acevedo
• Makeup & Hair: Jeremy Kregar
• Styled By: Thom Brodeur & Christina Albrecht
• Sponsored By: Dillard’s International Mall & Esmeralda Boutique Tampa

Kristin Tomasello’s story is a shining example of how one person’s challenges can be transformed into a mission of hope and empowerment. Through her unwavering dedication, she continues to prove that even the smallest acts of kindness can create a ripple effect of change.