Our Mission:
To provide critical funding for research related to the prevention, treatment, and ultimate cure of neuroblastoma and other pediatric cancers. We also provide financial assistance to families with children battling cancer in Southwest Michigan.
The Alex Mandarino Foundation was founded in 2013 by Tony & Katie Mandarino to honor the courage and strength of their son, Alex. It is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) tax-exempt public charity.
Most pediatric cancer treatments have not significantly improved in the past 20 years. Without funding, progress cannot be made to find a cure for childhood cancers or improve the effectiveness of their treatments. For our most vulnerable family members, this is unacceptable. That is why The Alex Mandarino Foundation exists.
Funding the Best Research
The Alex Mandarino Foundation has given over $400,000 to fund promising research for childhood cancer. In 2021 The Alex Mandarino Foundation rewarded two grants totaling $70,000 to two worthy recipients.
Dr. Andre Bachmann at Michigan State University received $35,000 from the foundation. The funds allow for further enhancement of a promising drug that has proven to work in some neuroblastoma patients, DFMO. Specifically, when DFMO is combined with another promising drug, it has shown to stay in the bloodstream longer improving the effectiveness of the treatment.
Another $35,000 was sent to Dr. Giselle Sholler at Atrium Health Levine Children’s Hospital in Charlotte, NC. Dr. Sholler is conducting a study combining precision medicine with precision immunotherapy. In her trials, a child has a biopsy of their tumor and an individualized treatment plan is created. At the same time, the patient has white blood cells harvested for the creation of personalized vaccines against their tumors.
Help us reach out to families fighting childhood cancer in Southwest Michigan.
Alex’s strength and courage inspired many. Part of our mission is to assist families who have a child in active cancer treatment. These families will reside primarily in Southwest Michigan where Alex’s family lives. We want to help alleviate some of the burden of daily living expenses such as food, gas, travel, and uncovered medical expenses.Do you know a child in Southwest Michigan getting treatment? Please refer that child to our foundation.
Email: thealexmandarinofoundation@gmail.com
