A Lifesaving Experience - LITERALLY!
Allow me to introduce you to 5 year-old, Davi. At Davi’s local hospital, he was told that his cancerous tumor was inoperable and terminal. Davi’s family found a hospital that had a different perspective on his cancer. This second hospital believed that there was a chance that they could remove it and, if successful, Davi could live a long full life. Unfortunately, the second hospital quoted the procedure at approximately $100,000. They agreed to discount the surgery down to $50,000, but the family needed that money in hand by last Friday or the hospital wouldn’t proceed. The family did not have this kind of money and there were no options for insurance or government assistance. This was literally LIFE OR DEATH!
Arms Wide Open, another childhood cancer charity, reached out to me to see if we could assist. Between Arms Wide Open, The B+ Foundation, a very generous supporter of ours, and some hard negotiations, we jointly pulled it together. Seeing the relief and excitement on Davi’s family on a Zoom call was indescribable. Last Friday, the doctors successfully removed all of Davi’s tumor and are very optimistic about his long-term outlook. If you don’t think you can make a difference, just ask Davi’s family. They have their boy back. I so wish we had this kind of opportunity with Andrew.
Meet Lilee
I just have to share this picture of a brave “goddess” to put a smile on your face and perspective in your life. Thanks to you, we helped this brave little girl and her family as well.
On The Road
With progress being made against the pandemic, I am THRILLED to be out meeting with students, parents, and other groups in person. Last Friday night, I had the honor of presenting to 2,500 students and parents at Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles. The students of LMUDM set their fundraising goal at $93,000 since Andrew was born on 9/3. :) Andrew set goals and always tried to exceed them. I am happy to say that LMUDM has already exceeded $100,000 and they still have a few weeks to go.
SALSthon is BACK!
Ten years ago, we helped Salesianum - Andrew’s school - start SALSthon, an overnight dance marathon. While Salesianum changes the beneficiary each year, they’ve returned to The Andrew McDonough B+ Foundation for this special 10th anniversary year. Salesianum, in partnership with their sister schools - Ursuline (Ali’s alma mater) and Padua - have already raised over $100,000 and they have a month until their event. SO impressive. We are very grateful that Andrew is not forgotten. Thank you!
B+
Ali & Andrew’s Dad
www.caringbridge.org/visit/AndrewMcDonough