Manda Maxwell is the reason behind the Manda Strong Foundation, with the sole mission to support mothers with uncertain futures due to life-threatening cancer diagnoses.
"We come alongside Collin and Grayson county women who are fighting cancer, with minor children at home, to help make family memories that last. We founded the Manda Strong Foundation during April 2017 to celebrate Manda's choices of faith over fear and family over circumstance," explains Ed Davis, MSF executive director and co-founder, along with his spouse and co-founder, Cindy Davis.
As devoted parents of Manda, maintaining something inspirational for other women was, and is, essential to Cindy and Ed.
Manda first had cancer at the age of 5 and was in remission until it resurfaced again at age 28. Five years later, the cancer returned for the third time. At 35, Manda, beloved wife and mother of two, passed on during 2017 in Dallas.
"We saw firsthand how Manda prioritized making memories. Her hope was those memories would be a welcome joy when looking back on a hard time. And, she knew that, in the worst case, her husband and kids would have precious memories to carry through their whole life," states Ed.
"Whether someone needs Christmas memories in August, help with making an unforgettable vacation happen, or just quality time with family, we've got you," adds Cindy.
MSF team members plan and create unique special events, trips, packages and support for the families of moms who are battling cancer. "Every mom's circumstances are different. We consider treatment plans, energy level and children's ages in our planning process," says Cindy.
The group also provides to mothers supportive self-care packages, filled with luxury lip balm, reusable water bottles, blankets, travel pillows and a devotional journal. These totes are especially helpful during chemo-related hospital and clinic appointments.
Women, with children 18 years or younger, may be nominated to receive self-care packages or services to help provide joy in the midst of their hardships.
Those interested may make one-time or recurring donations to the foundation, says Cindy as MSF treasurer.
Tyler Richardson serves as the group's president and Karla Reyes is the secretary. Board members include Eric Davis, Rebecca Scott, Jill Ruiz, M.D., Kristen Shaw and Sara Thomas.
Ed says that over the past eight years, they've had the privilege of supporting 80 moms. "Each mom’s experience is impactful. Our budget for each mom is several thousand dollars, covering the cost of creating unforgettable memories for these families."
He shares that the COVID-19 pandemic presented challenges, as many moms with cancer were forced into isolation due to compromised immune systems. "Despite these challenges, we’ve continued to support and uplift these incredible women. In addition to providing memory-making trips, we offer monthly face-to-face support meetings and maintain a private Facebook group where the moms can share their journeys, offer advice and form a supportive community."
He adds, "Through it all, we proudly share the love of the Lord, just as Manda did throughout her cancer journey. Her faith was a guiding light that helped her, and her family navigate the toughest times."
The group's online presence continues to grow, with the Facebook page reaching 7,200-plus followers. The website serves as a central hub for information, updates and resources.
One upcoming way to assist this compassionate initiative is to participate in the Manda Strong Foundation 2nd Annual Pickleball Tournament on June 14 at The Courts of McKinney. This indoor tournament is planned to start at 9 a.m.
Foundation supporters also are scheduled to host a golf tournament this Sept. 29 at The Courses at Watters Creek in Plano.
The group just held an annual Boots & Bling Fundraising Gala on Feb. 28. Ed says the next Gala will be held during 2027, because they host the event every two years to celebrate the strength of the moms they support and to gather vital funds for the foundation.
214.862.3552
MandaStrong.com
"What can I do with my kids today to make memories with them?" ~Manda Maxwell, catalyst for Manda Strong Foundation.