On March 1, 2025, Margherita Rebuffoni appeared on the popular Italian television program, Verissimo, to honor her daughter, the late Nadia Toffa, who tragically passed away on August 13, 2019, after battling glioblastoma. This emotional segment shed light on both the struggles and the legacy Nadia left behind, as her mother shared poignant memories of their time together.
Margherita reflected on the harrowing experience of watching her daughter decline, stating, "L’ho aiutata a diventare un angelo" (I helped her become an angel). Her words encapsulated the bittersweet essence of their final moments. She described Nadia as being beautiful even as she suffered, saying, "Era bellissima quando se n’è andata – pallida ma bellissima. Era dolce, serena" (She was beautiful when she departed - pale but beautiful. She was sweet, serene). Margherita recalled how Nadia would comfort her during those difficult days, urging her, "Mamma, l’unica cosa che non voglio fare è lasciarti" (Mom, the only thing I don’t want to do is leave you).
Throughout Nadia's illness, the young journalist maintained a positive outlook, constantly inspiring her parents with her strength. Margherita recounted how Nadia urged her not to cry, stating, "Mamma ti prego non piangere mai perché è come sprecare la vita" (Mom, please never cry because it’s like wasting life). These words were not just comforting; they were motivational, pushing her parents to carry on and to create something meaningful from their grief.
Following her daughter's death, Margherita and her husband made the significant decision to establish the Nadia Toffa Foundation, aiming to support cancer research and provide assistance to individuals facing similar battles. "Noi abbiamo dato tutto quello che avevamo alla fondazione della ricerca" (We gave everything we had to the foundation for research), she noted during her interview. The foundation is dedicated to continuing Nadia's legacy and supporting those who do not know where to turn for help. Margherita expressed her commitment, saying, "Nel suo nome non mi fermerò mai" (I will never stop in her name).
Margherita's efforts are not just limited to the foundation; she recently collaborated with Mauro Valentini to publish a book entitled Non perder tempo a piangere: Chi è davvero mia figlia Nadia e che cosa ci ha lasciato (Don't Waste Time Crying: Who My Daughter Nadia Really Is and What She Left Us). The book aims to share the essence of Nadia's life and the values she instilled within her family, providing readers with insight not only to her struggles but also her resilience and optimism.
The emotional turmoil of losing one’s child is unfathomable, yet Margherita chooses to reminisce about the joyous moments they shared, saying, "Mi ha aiutato tanto" (She helped me so much). Her strength shines through as she describes how Nadia inspired her to focus on helping others—especially the vulnerable and voiceless. "Mi ha fatto promettere di pensare sempre agli ultimi e a quelli che non hanno voce..." (She made me promise to always think of the least fortunate and those who have no voice), she emphasized, committing to advocate for those who are often overlooked by society.
Despite the passage of time, the echoes of Nadia’s life continue to resonate deeply within Margherita. She stated, "Se ne è andata, ma è vicina, ci sta aiutando con quello che stiamo portando avanti con la fondazione" (She left us, but she is close, helping us with what we are working on through the foundation). This sentiment highlights not only her enduring love for Nadia but also her unwavering determination to fulfill her daughter's last wishes.
The appearance on Verissimo was deeply moving, and Margherita's heartfelt memories provided viewers with insight not only about Nadia's life and battle with cancer but also about the enduring impact of her spirit. Margherita Rebuffoni remains committed to ensuring her daughter’s legacy continues to thrive through altruistic endeavors and research funding. Together with her husband, they are dedicated to combating cancer and providing support to families who feel helpless. Margherita’s message resonates—a reminder of love, sacrifice, and the importance of keeping one’s loved ones alive through meaningful actions.