COASTAL Partnership: Mitchell Thorp Foundation

About

Mitchell Thorp was just 13 when he started his battle with an undiagnosed illness. He couldn’t walk or talk, and his pain was so severe that no medication would relieve it. His parents went around the country to find answers and a cure, but there were still no answers. He succumbed to his illness at age 18. He was a 4.0 student and athlete, and his life was filled with love. Out of this tragedy, the Mitchell Thorp foundation was born.

Mitchell’s parents, Brad and Beth Thorp, founded the Mitchell Thorp Foundation to honor their son and support other families with children with life-threatening illnesses and disorders.

Mitchell Thorp Foundation has been in operation since 2009. Since then, they have discovered that over 50% of families whose child is diagnosed with a critical illness experience divorce or separation. The overwhelming stress often leads to bankruptcy financially, emotionally and physically. The loved ones of children going through illnesses need support, and through the foundation, they have been able to help many of these families.

Programs

The Mitchell Thorp Foundation offers various programs for families including their Medical and Home Assistance Programs, Healing and Wellness Programs and Conversion Van Program.

The Medical Home Assistance Program provides families with financial services, medical equipment, transportation, hotel stays, home improvements for mobility and well-being, advocacy and enriching camp experiences with other families called MTF Family & Child Adventures Services.

The Healing and Wellness Program provides therapeutic services for the whole family’s mind, body and spirit. Some of the therapies provided are Physical Therapy & Neuro Motor Integration Services, Integrative Medicine & Therapy Services, Educational Sessions & Personal Self-Care Services and counseling.

Lastly, their Conversion Van Program is in honor of Lauren Christine Francis. This service helps raise funds to buy an accessible van for families in need.

Our Partnership

Tri-City Medical Center has been a long-time supporter of the Mitchell Thorp Foundation as part of our COASTAL Commitment. We donate $5,000 each year to assist five families who utilize their Medical & Home Assistance program through our partnership. To learn how you can get involved, check out their website at mitchellthorp.org

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