As we reported earlier, The Marcus Fund for Families (the "Fund") is now under the auspices of Dr. Armstrong - Javors . The Fund is designed to help families with children being treated at the Massachusetts General Hospital for brain tumors and other neurological diseases to offset certain incidental expenses associated with their care. Dr. Armstrong-Javors has recently provided me with three Marcus Fund vignettes which I am pleased to share below:
G, an 11 year old boy who loves to swim, recently experienced recurrence of his tumor years after completion of chemotherapy. He is now undergoing another round of chemotherapy and his tumor has left him blind and with cognitive difficulties. G lives with his young single mother and has limited resources, so she was so happy to learn that we would be able to provide meal tickets and gas money for their weekly trips to the clinic through the Marcus Fund.
B, a 3 year old boy who loves action heroes, was recently diagnosed with a brain tumor and has undergone surgery, radiation therapy, and now chemotherapy. His hair is finally growing back and he is starting to talk more. B is a feisty kid and full of energy who lives with his grandmother far from the hospital. Through the Marcus Fund, we were able to provide gas cards and parking passes to the MGH garage.
M, a 10 year old boy who recently emigrated to America, was diagnosed with a brain tumor which has worsened despite treatment. M has trouble talking and walking but loves going to school and especially loves soccer. He is always smiling. The Marcus Fund was able to provide meal tickets and parking passes to help his family with weekly expenses around his care.
I am sure that you will agree that it is truly gratifying to hear such stories. While the Marcus Fund has been able to assist many such families , there are so many others needing our assistance. Accordingly, we ask that you continue to support the Marcus Foundation so that we are able to continue the battle that Marcus so valiantly fought.
Look for the announcement concerning our Fall Raffle in early September which we hope that you will share with friends and family. As always, any donations are greatly appreciated.
Thank you,
Mark Niziak
President, The Marcus Fund