In the months following Mitchell’s sudden passing, we were surprised by the significant expenses associated with the death of a child. My husband took time from work, we sought trauma counseling and therapy (we could not find a grief specialist in our corner of the state taking new patients who accepts insurance), we had medical bills (once deceased, a person is no longer covered under a policy so any further testing after a basic autopsy is paid out of pocket), the funeral costs, and more. Many times during these months I asked my husband, “But how do people afford this?”
And the foundation was born.
We were so fortunate to receive wonderful care from our Children’s Hospital and the generosity of a community. We believe all families should have access to the support required during unimaginable loss.
Our goal is to provide significant financial assistance to 5 or more families per year. Additionally, if our funds allow, we will also support the study by the doctors who graciously helped our family. We want to “return” what was gifted to us to other families requiring these specialties, and to further research in the field of pediatric cardiac episodes.
On a personal note, as Mitchell’s mom first-and-foremost, establishing this foundation has been an emotional rollercoaster. I don’t want to be doing any of this; I want to be holding my son. But I do believe he would be so proud to see what has been done in his honor. Thank you for supporting us in this path forward and for extending a community of hope to others.
Amy Moore
President
