Spreading the Word
B+ Hero Anaya
“I trust this email finds you in good health. I am writing to convey our deepest gratitude for the incredible support you have extended to our family during these trying times. Additionally, I am sharing a video from my daughter “Anaya”, who is currently in the hospital, expressing her heartfelt thanks.
Your generosity and compassion have left an indelible mark on our lives as we navigate the challenging journey of our 22-month-old daughter's battle with ALL (Leukemia) cancer. The emotional and financial burdens that accompany such a situation can be overwhelming, and your foundation has been a beacon of comfort and relief.
I would also like to extend my sincere condolences for the loss your foundation has endured. Losing a 14-year-old son after a 167-day fight, despite immense efforts from family and doctors, is an unimaginable pain. My thoughts and prayers are with him and your entire team during this difficult time.
The assistance you've provided has not only eased our rental expenses but has also offered crucial emotional support, granting us the strength to face each day with hope and determination. Your unwavering commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of families like ours is truly commendable.
We wish to express our heartfelt appreciation to everyone at the B+ Foundation. Your dedication to the well-being of children and families confronting pediatric cancer serves as a beacon of light in the darkest of times. We are profoundly grateful for the love and care you have showered upon us.
Please convey our heartfelt thanks to all the members of your team who work tirelessly to make a difference in the lives of those affected by cancer. Your kindness has touched our hearts, and we will forever be grateful for the profound impact you've had on our family.
Thank you once again for being a steadfast pillar of support during this challenging chapter of our lives.”
On the Road…
Last week, I traveled to Washington, DC last week for our “Alliance Action Days”. We brought together over 200 family advocates from across the country. We trained the advocates on Tuesday and we hit The Hill on Wednesday with visits to our respective elected Congressional Members’ offices. We asked for their support on reauthorization and funding for the STAR ACT and Childhood Cancer Data Initiative (CCDI) and also for legislation that would make it easier for kids on Medicaid to be treated across state lines. We are, after all, the UNITED States of America. It’s a real common sense bill in my opinion. I am very pleased to say that we were very warmly welcomed and supported by the Delaware Delegation of Senators Tom Carper and Chris Coons and Congresswoman Lisa Blunt-Rochester. Thanks to B+ Hero, Emily Higgins, and her Mom (Jackie) for joining me on our visits.
Loyola Marymount University - Los Angeles
Upon returning from DC, I packed up to head out to LA to speak at Loyola Marymount University. What a beautiful campus! I spoke to between 4,000-5,000 parents and students on an outdoor stage for about 20 minutes before their Lip Synch show. It was a great night and LMUDM raised $45,000 just that night for The Andrew McDonough B+ Foundation.
Make it a great week.
B+
Ali & Andrew’s Dad