It’s your birthday!

Hey Maggie, Happy 24th Birthday in Heaven.

Who would you be since we last saw you almost seven years ago? What would you look like? So much wondering and so much missing. Today, we are sharing some photos from a time before cancer.

Through the foundation in your name, we’ve funded over $2,000,000 in research to find cures, and have assisted so many children and families. We will continue those efforts as long as we can - our promise made to you to help save children.

Your “Angelversary” is fast approaching - June 1, 2024.

It follows the day we will host Maggie’s Mission’s largest fundraising event - your Seven in Heaven Angelversary Gala on Friday, May 31st. We’re hoping to make this years’ the best yet with a Coachella Musical Festival vibe and flower crowns, which would have been right up your alley.

On your birthday, we are gifting attendees $24 off their first ticket purchase using the coupon code MAGGIE24.

Here are 24 photos of your short time with us. Sending you love wherever you are Miss Maggie. Send us a sign if you can. We hope you know how much you are missed and loved by so many.

“Thank you for your sassy and bossy ways. Thank you for 17 beautiful years. It should have been more. ”
— Love you... Mom, Dad, and your entire family.

Maggie Diane Margaret Schmidt
April 19, 2000 - June 1, 2017

We can do hard things.

United Airlines NYC Half wrap-up (and more)

Courtney Harris, mother of Nora, keeping warm before the start of her first ever half marathon. Courtney’s daughter Nora was diagnosed with Wilms tumor, a pediatric cancer.

We can do hard things. Nora’s mom Courtney was thinking just that as she ran her very first half marathon this past Sunday, March 17th fundraising for Team Maggie’s Mission. Courtney recalled these words she had said to her 4 year old daughter Nora after she was diagnosed with Wilms tumor. It was a reminder to herself of what her child and kids with cancer have to endure and how strong they have to be to go through the harsh and painful treatments.

It’s a sentiment all of our runners were thinking as they crossed off mile after mile in the New York Road Runners United Airlines NYC Half, fundraising for cures to help children “Make it to be an adult.” (One of Maggie’s bucket list wishes, found in a notebook after she died).

For sure, it’s what I was thinking as I ran the longest I have run in well over a decade. My feet hurt, my legs hurt, my lungs hurt, and as always, my heart hurt. But like Courtney, I know firsthand what it’s like for a child facing cancer and there was no stopping any of us on Sunday!

I was thankful to share my story of why I chose to run the race this year as one of NYRR’s “Featured Runners”. Sam Ryan from ABC came by MM headquarters for an interview a few days before the race, listen to it here or by clicking the link below… it included a little bio on NYRR’s official 2024 race app.

Maggie’s dad, my personal superhero joined our team this year and fundraised. Thanks for running with me Steve and setting our blistering fast pace of a sub-12 minute mile.

Steve, Maggie’s dad running through Times Square, plays the superhero part well. He, he.

“Together we “run”raised over $24,000 and counting to help kids…
↓”

Speaking of doing hard things.

It’s going to be 7 long years since we said our last goodbye to our sweet Maggie. But in that time, while we’ve continued to live with broken hearts, we’ve also helped so many children and families through Maggie’s Mission. We hope you’ll continue to support our foundation by attending our upcoming Angelversary Gala. See deets below…

Maggie’s Mission invites you to our Seven in Heaven Angelversary Gala.

Friday May 31st, 6-10pm, Vanderbilt Museum, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport, NY 11721.

An evening of love and remembrance, honoring Maggie, her incredible spirit, and unwavering love of children. Dust off those flower crowns, throw on your best white-ish boho chic outfit, and step into a world that mirrors the vibrant spirit of the legendary Coachella Festival.

PICTURE THIS.

The stunning Vanderbilt Museum, immersed in vibrant colors, bohemian vibes, and a palpable sense of hope. As you enter the transformed space, you’ll be transported into a world of music, art, and love, reminiscent of the iconic festival that people look forward to all year round, without ever leaving the East Coast!

BUT THAT’S NOT ALL!

 

As our guest, you will be treated to a night of indulgence. Thanks to our special sponsor and creative partner MMEink, we will be offering top shelf open bar and gourmet food stations with an array of cuisines and delectable treats. It’s sure to be an unforgettable evening that encapsulates the magic of Maggie, the Vanderbilt, and Coachella.

THE BEST PART?

Proceeds from this event are dedicated to pediatric cancer research, treatment, and support services for affected children and their families.

DON’T MISS OUT!

Good morning!

Make it to be an adult.

Today is only three weeks to the day Maggie’s Mission team of runners will be taking to the streets of Brooklyn and Manhattan for the United Airlines NYC Half. This is our third year in a row we’ve partnered with The New York Road Running Club as an official Charity Partner. Our theme this year is borrowed from Maggie’s Bucket list wish, “Make it to be an adult.”

The race is on Sunday, March 17th which happens to be St. Paddy’s Day. Did you know Maggie was a wee bit Irish? Maggie’s mom will be running the race, along with an incredible team who have been touched by pediatric cancer in one way or another.

Unfortunately, cancer robbed Maggie of that chance. We’re here to fund critical research to save other children from the same fate. Please consider any donation to support our runners. We couldn’t do The Good We Do without you! Thank you.

Save the date for Friday, May 31st for our Seven in Heaven Angelversary Gala at the stunning vanderbilt museum in centerport.

While June 1st marks seven years since we lost Maggie, we continue to honor her spirit with our Angelversary Gala. The Gala is our largest fundraising event of the year and is very special to us always. Tickets and sponsorship opportunities will be available starting the first week in March, so please stay tuned for coming announcements and opportunities.

Our first fundraising idea comes to fruition!

IT’s True!

When we founded Maggie’s Mission 6 years ago in September of 2017, just a few short months after losing our precious and very much loved and missed Maggie Diane Margaret Schmidt, we sat around brainstorming ideas for ways to fundraise. We asked ourselves what are things Maggie loved? What would Maggie want to be part of? We felt if we centered events around the things she loved that we’d be able to honor her memory and love of children, and keep her close, without her being physically with us.

And it just so happens that our very first fundraising idea was selling custom s’mores kits and hosting “Maggie’s Marshmallow Roast”. We wanted to capture the joy and excitement that Maggie and our family felt when gathering around the campfire, roasting marshmallows, and sharing sweet moments with loved ones.

That’s where S’mores for More comes in! Spreading s’more smiles and helping kids’ to make s’more memories…

This past Saturday, we honored Maggie, local pediatric cancer children and their families, and wrapped up pediatric cancer awareness month with our inaugural S’mores for More 4k Sunset Run. The air was filled with laughter, encouragement, and the sweet aroma of toasted marshmallows. Families huddled around cozy Solo Stove fire-pits, roasting marshmallows and proudly donned their S’mores for More t-shirts and medals after the race.

We welcomed over 200 4k runners across the finish line on a course that had to be changed at the last minute due to tropical storm Ophelia, who had magically reappeared after leaving us soaked the weekend prior. The storm caused extensive damage and flooding all over the NY Metro area and left some of our initial race course with literal sinkholes. We are thankful to the crew working at Sunken Meadow State Park who quickly approved our new course and groomed as much of the trail as they could to make it safe for all. A record number of children ran our free kids’s fun run. Seeing so many kids crossing the finish line was… well, fun and so meaningful to our cause. They were competitive and ready to go! Click below to check out some sweet race photos!

Join us on our journey to make S’mores for More available nationwide, allowing us to widen our impact and provide support to even more families. Together, we can make a difference – one heartfelt s’more at a time.

Thank you to our generous sponsors and supporters who made this race so special!
Lotus Physical Therapy, PC., Bethpage Federal Credit Union, Oishii, Pool Doctor, Solo Stove, TJ Maxx, Copenhagen Bakery + Cafe, Christopher Appoldt Photography, and signage by Signarama of Huntington. Race timing by Elitefeats.

The S’mores for More 4K Sunset Run is one month away!

Go Gold with us!

Pediatric cancer awareness month is almost here. Starting this Friday, September 1st, Maggie’s Mission goes gold for the 6th year in a row - helping to spread awareness and helping children and families who are affected by pediatric cancers.

We’ll be kicking off Maggie’s “Do S’more” Challenge in schools and will host our inaugural S’mores for More 4K Sunset Run, just one month from today! The race is presented by The Northport Running Club.

A photo from the original Maggie’s Challenge in September 2017, a fundraiser held in the South Huntington School district where Maggie’s father is a teacher. The Challenge raised over $33,000 and helped Maggie’s Mission start The Good We Do.

Join the Challenge and wrap it up with us in person on Saturday, September 30th for a fast cross country race, a free kids fun run, and some tasty S’mores for More treats after. Hopefully we’ll all catch a sunset too! All Maggie favorites!

There’s still time to sign on as a sponsor and get your personalized bib!

Happy Summer!

Maggie’s Mission hopes you are all enjoying the summer, it was Maggie’s favorite season.

We’ve been up in the Catskills at our new little getaway and soon to be Airbnb (we hope). Maggie’s dad and I bought a little Chapel here last February and have been working hard to fix up the three season 1920 structure that once served as the Chapel for Sunday service at an exclusive summer camp called Camp Rip Van Winkle. It’s a family dream realized even though we are missing a huge part of our family. When Maggie was getting her stem cells collected which is a long, uncomfortable procedure, we kept her mind busy talking about the cabin we’d finally buy in the Adirondacks on a lake when she was cancer free. It’s hard to imagine we’d ever be revisiting our dreams without her.

We miss you Maggie. Nothing is the same without you. You should be here enjoying the place and area with friends. We know you’d love it and would be off adventuring in the many mountains and streams that make up the Catskills.

We’re calling our humble little place on a tiny spit of land, The Little Chapel on High Falls, LCOHF for short. It sits within ear shot of some spectacular waterfalls right down the road, which is soothing to the soul.

that’s not all we’ve been up to.

We provided our 45th meal to families staying at RMH-NY on August 5th. These meals and the Good We Do are supported by all of you and by fundraisers such at the Montauk Canyon Challenge held by Staten Island Yachts and their numerous sponsors. Huge shoutout to them for raising $30,000 through their generous donors and efforts! Thank you Chris and Richie!

Greenlawn summer nights

We also spread some cheer by participating in the Greenlawn Civic Association’s Greenlawn Summer Nights in Maggie’s hometown. It was a great night meeting old friends and new.

Looking ahead to pediatric cancer awareness month.

We are excited to roll out our 2023 Maggie’s “Do S’more Challenge” in local schools, which includes nine inspiring challenges meant to get kids moving and grooving while fundraising to help us help keep kids’ campfires burning. Learn s’more by clicking the link below…

S’mores for more 4k sunset run

We hope you’ll join us for a new and exciting S’mores for More 4k Sunset Run at Sunken Meadow State Park, presented by the Northport Running Club on Saturday, September 30th at 5:00PM. It’s a fast cross country 4k, with a free kids fun run for kids 9 and under. Check out all the fun deets at the link below and we hope to see you there as we wrap up pediatric cancer awareness month.

Go Gold or Go Home!

To jump or not to jump? That was the question.

Jen Espinosa flying high over Northport Harbor releasing some of Maggie’s Ashes. How’d they know teal was Maggie’s color?

Actually it wasn’t a question when the pilot and Mike Elliott, as well as his team from the All Veteran Group saw the dark clouds rolling in and lightening in the sky at Republic Airport in Farmingdale last Friday during our Glow for Gold Angelversary Gala. Presented by New York Community Bank, a division of Flagstar Bank N.A., and the Cangemi family, long-time supporters of Maggie’s Mission.

Not gonna lie, it was emotional and disappointing. We had planned long and hard for the jump, jumping through many hoops and hurdles to make it all come together. But there are always risks in life, and weather is just one.

I was pretty nervous leading up to the actual jump, watching a video on the inherent hazards of jumping from an airplane. But this was as safe a skydive as you could get. Mike Elliott is a veteran parachuter from the US Army Golden Knights, who has thousands and thousands of jumps under his belt. It was he who accompanied the late George H. W. Bush in his later years, on not one but THREE tandem jumps. I was in very good hands.

To ensure our safety, Mike sent two professional parachuters, Jen Espinosa and Mario Rivera, who can jump from lower elevations than a tandem team can and I watched them fly away with tears in my eyes. Jen carried a large flag with an image of Maggie and her handwritten bucket list wish to skydive, and some of Maggie’s ashes. She released them into the sky above Northport Harbor, while Mario filmed it. If you haven’t seen the very touching video Mario put together, click the button below. Many tears were shed watching the video. He picked the most beautiful song that perfectly described Maggie and how much we love her. I’m still crying as I write this. My baby girl…

Thank you to Mike Elliott, his team, and Jennifer Pinto from JK Consulting for helping make the jump happen!

Coincidentally, Maggie and our family flew from Republic on a private jet when she was sick. It was also the same airport we met Gabby Cava and her parents at after Maggie’s Mission secured a private flight for them so Gabby could comfortably come home after her HIPEC surgery she had undergone for a rare form of colon cancer. So many memories came rushing back - of two beautiful young women taken too soon by cancer.

I got back to our event just in time for an interview with Magee Hickey from Pix 11 News, which was pretty exciting in itself.

Click any photo above to visit our official Glow for Gold Angelversary Gala page to see more photos from this incredible evening of love, life, and joy.

Huge thanks to everyone who came out and supported for another hugely successful night! To our “Gala Girls” Samantha Laterza, Briana DiPardo, Joan Motherway, Brenda Lombardo and to our sponsors from the evening - New York Community Bank, the Cangemi family, Marine Bulkheading, TRIAD Metals, TGT Transport, the Charles and Helen Reichert Family Foundation, and Structure Tek.

Thank you to the Vanderbilt Museum for hosting the sixth annual Maggie’s Mission Angelversary Gala and many thanks to our cherished vendors Christopher Appoldt Photography, Adrian B Event Design, Club G Entertainment, Long Island Sound DJ Entertainment, LDI Connect, NY Lounge Decor, Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Blue Point Brewing, The Frosted Rose Bakery, and Triple Crown Charity Fundraising for the donation of goods and professional services for our event.

Save the date for next year’s event at the Vanderbilt on Friday, June 7th, 2024
Seven in Heaven Angelversary Gala, a Coachella, festival themed event, so stay tuned…

Picture jumping from here!

What????

Jumping from a perfectly good airplane? That’s right! It will be a tandem jump with Mike Elliott, retired US Army Golden Knight. Honoring Maggie’s Bucket List, found in a notebook after she died. Maggie, you should be here completing your adventurous and amazing bucket list. You will be in our hearts for this momentous occasion, as the date marks 6 long years since cancer stole you from us.

The jump is one month away from today. Mike has lots of experience doing aerial stunts, and has taken the late George H. W. Bush on three tandem jumps. Tragically, George and Barbara also lost a young daughter to cancer. I’m amazed how people carry on after such a life changing event. Missing your precious children.

Our Glow for Gold Angelversary Gala, presented by New York Community Bank, a division of Flagstar Bank, N.A., and the Cangemi Family, long time supporters of our foundation has an exciting Glow theme planned. The theme is borrowed from Maggie’s last healthy and happy birthday. There will be black lights, neon face painting, and more!

We hope you’ll join us for this very special evening and largest fundraising event of the year that helps us help children affected by cancer. Tickets are still available but they’re going fast. White casual attire is recommended, and an extra pair of shoes due to the historic nature of the Vanderbilt Museum and beautiful venue.

Make it to be an adult.

Maggie’s Bucket List.

Maggie’s Bucket list that we found in a notebook after she passed was so many things. Adventurous. Nostalgic. Full of curiousity. Selflessness, and finally, tragedy. The second to last wish is hard to read. A simple wish, but it speaks volumes of our reasons for fighting for cures to help other children “make it to be an adult.” As you may know, we’ve been ticking off some of the items on her list. Our first was handing food and clothes to the homeless. Followed by a cross country road trip, and more recently, going back and hiking the Grand Canyon, exactly 7 years to the day we hiked it as a family. Our next is a pretty exciting one, skydiving into the 6th Annual Angelversary Gala. Did you just read that? OH YEAH! We’re doing it. With the help of some new friends. More on that later.

2023 Glow for Gold Angelversary Gala

Let’s Glow! Tickets and sponsorships are now on sale for our 6th Annual Maggie’s Mission Glow for Gold Angelevsary Gala on Friday, June 2nd at the Vanderbilt Museum. Click below to purchase tickets and support. This year’s event is a day glow theme, borrowed from Maggie’s last healthy birthday, which was a glow party. Be prepared for a fun and exciting evening. Featuring Maggie’s mom (me) completing Maggie’s Bucket List Jump into the gala with Mike Elliot, retired US Army Golden Knight. The Golden Knights are the United States Army’s official aerial parachute demonstration team. Mike has taken the late George H. W. Bush on three tandem jumps. Pretty cool, huh?

We are also seeking donations of goods and services to raffle at the event, please reach out to our team at info@maggiesmission.org if you have ideas or items to help.

The big day is only three weeks away! Our team of 11 runners take to the streets of the Big Apple to run the United Airlines NYC Half on Sunday, March 19th. Support them as they help finish Maggie’s fight to find cures and help children and their families affected by pediatric cancer. We are $3,000 away from meeting our fundraising goal. The money raised also helps cover the costs of providing monthly meals to families staying at Ronald McDonald House in NYC. We were once guests and were fortunate to be provided meals while Maggie was in treatment.

We know this might be a tad bit late, But…

If you haven’t seen our 2022 Year in Review which wraps up The Good We Do, click the link below to read it. As always, our team is on the move, thinking outside the box to grow our foundation and to help in more ways than ever. Thank you all for being a part of The Good We Do.

We miss and love you Maggie. For always…

Maggie Monday.

Team MM has been busy… Our latest donation of $100,000 to Dr. Alex Kentsis of Memorial Sloan Kettering and MSK kids has helped further the important research to find cures and better treatment options for MRT and all pediatric cancers. We are incredibly grateful to be making such a huge impact in the race to find cures. And speaking of finding cures, our delectable S’mores for More kits are officially available online for purchase! Scroll below for more info.

We are now a proud Member Agency of the Townwide Fund of Huntington, who awarded us with a $5,000 grant which will help us continue to help local families affected by pediatric cancer.

J. McLaughlin of Huntington, long time supporters of MM, hosted a Sip & Shop fundraising event in September. Thank you.

Stop & Shop has chosen Maggie’s Mission to be a part of their Community Bag Program for September and October. If you shop at Stop & Shop, you can ask that Maggie’s Mission be considered as their chosen charity. Every dollar raised counts!

We were super excited to be a part of the Long Island Fall Festival in Heckscher Park in Huntington on Columbus Day weekend. Check out our the interview below… Next year, we are planning to be an even larger part of the Festival with an exciting fundraising event so stay tuned.

Thank you to Identity Digital for the interview and video clip. Follow them on Facebook and Instagram.

Maggie’s Mission is once again an official charity partner for the United Airlines NYC Half Marathon on Sunday, March 19th, 2023! We have 10 bibs available (5 more than last year - woo hoo!) and they’re going fast. Get updates by following our social channels.

Saturday night, we fed our 36th meal to families staying at Ronald McDonald House in NYC, where we were once guests. We recognize the importance of not having to pay for meals while a child is in treatment in NYC. The costs add up quickly. We’re proud to be to have filled almost 2,000 tummies since 2017. It’s one less thing families have to worry about.

RMH-NY writes… “Thanks so much to you and your team. We are so lucky to have you as friends of the House.”

We’ll never forget you Father Time, how could we? But from time to time, it’s good to switch things up a bit and so we are reimagining our New Year’s Day Maggie’s Mile with a S’mores for More Sunset Run at Sunken Meadow State Park slated for fall 2023. Tentative dates include Saturday, September 30th, and Saturday, October 7th, so pencil us in on your calendar. It’ll be the most exciting and fun race yet, we promise.

Now available for purchase! Your favorite childhood snack now gives back. We are extremely proud of our S’mores for More kits that support pediatric cancer research and are now available online! With the Holidays just around the corner, these super sweet treats make the perfect stocking stuffer, teacher gifts, and s’more.

Dan Pashman of The Sporkful has this to say about them… “This is a special s’more. It’s a S’mores for More. Heart shaped chocolate, marshmallow, AND a softer graham cracker… mmm… OMG! Great cause and great s’more!”

GLOW FOR GOLD on the beautiful Gold Coast of Long Island! Our sixth Anniversary Angelversary “Glow for Gold” Gala will be a magical evening, filled with music, dancing, delicious food, top shelf libations, exclusive silent auction items, and raffles. Held on Friday, June 2nd, 2023 from 6-10:00 pm at the beautiful and historic Vanderbilt Museum in Centerport, NY, the event has an exciting glow theme planned. Email us for a very special presenting sponsorship opportunity.

“Have we mentioned lately how much we miss you Miss Maggie?
Too much, that’s how much!”
— Mom

Founded 5 years ago today!

Cheers to five years!

Today is our fifth anniversary of helping children and their families affected by pediatric cancers, in honor of Miss Maggie’s wish to help save kids. While Maggie may be gone physically, her spirit lives on through us and all of our supporters. She is the driving force behind everything we do.

Research that will help save lives.

Although survival rates have increased, cures and treatment options for rare cancers, like Maggie had, still have poor statistical outcomes. Since our founding, we’ve funded critical research to find cures. On this day, we are sending out a check to MSK Kids for $100,000, bringing our total number of funding (not including grants) to $1,025,000. It’s a proven fact, research saves lives.

Partnerships that spread hope.

Maggie’s Mission continues to feed children and families staying at Ronald McDonald House in NYC. More than 2,000 tummies filled since 2017.

We’re also super excited for a S’mores for More partnership with the Sunrise Association “Dare to Dream” benefit, on Wednesday, November 16th at the Lighthouse at Chelsea Piers. Sunrise Association’s Mission is to bring back the joys of childhood to children with cancer and their siblings both locally, and worldwide, with inclusive summer day camps, year-round programs and in-hospital recreational activities, all offered free of charge.

Maggie had hopes of attending their camp but tragically passed away before getting the chance.

how you can help.

Join our 2022 Maggie’s Challenge which is currently underway. Maggie’s challenge includes 9 inspiring challenges that are ideal for children.

We are excited to be a part of the 2022 Huntington Fall Festival on Columbus Day weekend where we will be selling Maggie Gear. Stop by and say hello at our new MM tent which we can’t wait to unveil. We will have exciting giveaways and fun activities.

Our S’mores for More kits will be available for purchase in Mid-October, sign up for pre-sales of these oh so tasty treats that will support our important work.

Make a donation today to celebrate five years of Maggie’s Mission helping children!

National S’mores Day

It was six years ago today, on Wednesday, August 10th, 2016, that Maggie first complained of pain. I’ll never forget the text. Maggie never complained…

I told her to take a pain reliever, try a heating pad, a hot bath… She told me nothing was working. I was driving home in rush hour traffic in torrential downpours with flooding everywhere on the LIE on Long Island when I got the text. Her dad and our son, Steven, Maggie’s brother, were in Utah on a trip, climbing Angel’s Landing. No one was home to help her. I made a call to her pediatrician on my way home and made an appointment so she could be seen. Her pediatrician - Dr. Muia-Chisena, knew Maggie well and had been her doctor since she was born. She knew when Maggie complained, something was wrong. I made it home to Maggie sometime after 5:30. We drove to the Doctor and she felt her abdomen and told us to head to the ER, because she thought Maggie had a cyst that may have hemorrhaged or possibly an ovarian torsion.

Maggie didn’t have any of those things. She had a very rare and very aggressive tumor that burst, leaving her to almost bleed to death internally on that very first night. The cancer wasn’t caught for almost two months. By the time it was found, we were told it was stage 4 and there was nothing we could do except try chemo in an effort to extend her life.

August 10th was the day that forever changed our lives - on National S’mores Day, which happens to have been one of Maggie’s favorite snacks growing up.

We miss Maggie every day. Life as we knew it is not the same. But since she died, we’ve made a pledge to help other children suffering. Maggie is the driving force behind everything we do. We are proud of the hard work and effort we’ve put into changing children’s lives for the better every single day.

That’s why we are developing kits using Maggie’s favorite childhood snack. A snack that gives back. While these delicious and tasty treats aren’t ready for sale quite yet, we wanted to announce and tell the word that they soon will be!

S’mores for More - S’mores for Cures.

Every sale of our custom, made with love, S’more kits will support kids in need and pediatric cancer research. Because kids deserve more. Maggie deserved more.

Help us keep kids campfires burning, visit our new S’mores for More website, and follow us on Instagra(ha)m! Let us know how you’d like to get involved. We are looking for supportive partners, sponsors, and ambassadors.

Happy National S’mores Day Maggie, this is for you.

The text from Maggie above…

Miss Maggie in Montauk!

Record breaking tournament in the books!

This past week, the largest ever 12th Annual Montauk Canyon Challenge was held. The tournament is run out of Gurney’s Star Island Resort & Marina in Montauk, NY (a place Maggie loved), and is now in its 12th year. Started by David O’Halloran who sadly passed away in May of 2017, just a week before Maggie, the event has become the Northeast’s Premier Tuna Tournament.

Richie Lucas, of Staten Island Yachts and Viking Brand Manager, Chris Squeri, of Atlantic Yacht Haven, and Travelers Yacht Haven, were the co-directors and event organizers who put on a record tournament with more boats registered than in years past, including a record amount of prize money given out. Through their dedication and incredible efforts, it attract anglers from all over and continues to be one of the Northeast’s most popular offshore fishing tournaments.

The tournament, which has continued to support Maggie’s Mission has raised over $35,000 this year! That’s what we call Fishin’ for the Mission and Fishing for Cures!

Our foundation feels so fortunate to be the recipient of such generosity. We are proud to be blessed in this way. With the support, the money will go a long way in relieving suffering and offering hope to children and their families affected by pediatric cancers.

MCC is sponsored by Staten Island Yachts, and Twin Forks Insurance. Other sponsors include Morgan Stanley, Christi Insurance & Risk Management Solutions, Trident Funding Corporation, Montauk Angler’s Club, Viking Yachts, Gurney’s Star Island Resort & Marina, Whitewater Outfitters Long Island, Cross Island Wrecker Service, Advanced Marine Diesel, Seakeeper, Seacurity Systems, S+S Propeller, Petrey Real Estate, Fuel OX Marine, L.T. Marine, Full Capacity Fire, SOUTHSHORE Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, Rich’s Marine Diesel Services, Inc., BuddhaBerry Frozen Yogurt Café, and many others.

Thank you to Rich Lucas, Chris squeri, tournament sponsors, participants, and MM supporters!

Oh what a night!

A perfect evening of LOVE + HOPE…

As promised, the Fifth Anniversary Maggie’s Mission Angelversary Gala did not disappoint. How could it? The weather was perfect, the lighting just right, the venue spectacular, and the evening filled with the most supportive crowd of volunteers and attendees. Everyone enjoyed MM’s signature MMoTito’s Cocktails in the Courtyard and were treated to beautiful music by the Illuminate String Quartet from Luminous Sounds. It felt like we were transported back to another time and another place. We are going with a new word to describe it - Maggiecal!

There was even a surprise Red-tailed hawk release in honor of Maggie.

Thank you Cathy Stpierre of WINORR for this incredibly special opportunity! Cathy and her family are local wildlife rehabilitators who help injured wildlife on Long Island, NYC, and beyond.

Jamie Wrede spoke bravely about her diagnosis and experience with Osteosarcoma. About being treated like family by the Doctors, Nurses, and Staff at Memorial Sloan Kettering, where Maggie was also treated, and the need for more funding to find better treatment options and cures. Following Jamie’s talk was Dr. Alex Kentsis speaking about new discoveries in clinical trials that will soon be available for children diagnosed with the same type of cancer Maggie had (MRT). The clinical trial is a direct result of the funding by Maggie’s Mission. Dr. Kenstsis also spoke about his recent experience helping to evacuate children with cancer from Ukraine. The efforts were part of a grassroots pediatric cancer foundation in Ukraine, much like us, whose impact has grown.

From left to right: Jamie Wrede, Donna and the Gala Girls - Samatha Laterza, Briana DiPardo, and Joan Motherway.

David Ruiz, Dr. Alex Kentsis, and Liz Francoil from Memorial Sloan Kettering

Thank you all so much for being a part of this special event. A huge thanks to all of Maggie’s Angels and our Gala Girls who donated so much of their personal time to help make this our most successful event yet.

There were 310+ guests in attendance with so many more supporting that couldn’t make it. Sponsors enjoyed wines donated by Southern Glazers Wine & Spirits and we danced our hearts out to music by ACC DJ Productions.

Each guest got a mini s’mores for more/s’mores for cures kit, which is currently in the planning and development stage. These kits for kids will be available for purchase soon and will benefit our goal of funding more critical research! Visit the s’mores for more website to learn more and get involved. Maggie’s Mission is currently looking for Brand Ambassadors to get these kits sold in fundraisers across the country!

Our Angelversary Gala will continue to grow and help us expand our reach with more ways to give back to families and children affected by pediatric cancers. While we are still tallying the total amount raised, one thing is for sure, Maggie’s Mission went gold for pediatric cancers on Friday, June 3rd, 2022 on the Gold Coast of Long Island!

Save the date for next year on Friday, June 2nd, 2023 at the Vanderbilt Museum. We already have an exciting theme planned!

Here is a link to high resolution photos taken by Christopher Appoldt, our amazing photographer and friend. Use the password ‘gala’ to view and download photos.

We are grateful…

Thank you to Christopher Appoldt Photography, Starbright Floral, ACC DJ Productions, Luminous Sounds, Long Island Sound DJ Entertainment, LDI Connect, NY Lounge Decor, North Stream, Big Apple Props, Southern Glazers’s Wine & Spirits, Muether Baking, The Frosted Rose Bakery, Home Town Bake Shop, Triple Crown Charity Fundraising, and Love Tito’s for their donation of goods and professional services for the Gala.

We also would like to thank Lessings Hospitality for their support of our event, and for going above and beyond with services.

Special thanks to the Charles and Helen Reichert Family Foundation and the Vanderbilt Museum for hosting the Fifth Anniversary of Maggie’s Mission Angelversary Gala.

A toast to Maggie and all children and families affected by pediatric cancers. The earrings Maggie’s mom is wearing are part of The Maggie Collection. Head on over and check them out.

Cheers everyone!

Stay tuned for more exciting news from Team MM!

The Angelversary Gala

Our Fifth Anniversary Angelversary Gala is tomorrow night!

“Yesterday marked 5 years since we lost Maggie. It’s hard to believe. She should be here. We miss her so much. ”
— Maggie's Mission

Yet, we are so proud of everything we’ve accomplished and will continue to do with your support, in honor of Maggie’s love of life and children! We update “The Good We Do” almost weekly so check often to see your support at work.

Today, Thursday, June 2nd, 2022 is your last chance to purchase tickets.

Tickets will not be sold at the door.

We have an amazing array of exciting silent auction items to bid on and win, along with over 60 Angelversary baskets which are jam packed with unique items and precious fun!

Click the buttons below to take a sneak peek at everything.

Can’t attend? You can bid on silent auctions by clicking the link below!

Thank you to our generous sponsors and everyone who donated goods and services to help make this our most memorable event yet! A huge shoutout to our “Gala Girls” who have gone above and beyond to help us in our mission to help make change for children and families affected by pediatric cancers.

2022 ANGELVERSARY SPONSORS

Thank you to Christopher Appoldt Photography, Starbright Floral, ACC DJ Productions, Luminous Sounds, Long Island Sound DJ Entertainment, LDI Connect, NY Lounge Decor, North Stream, Big Apple Props, Southern Glazers’s Wine & Spirits, Muether Baking, The Frosted Rose Bakery, Home Town Bake Shop, Triple Crown Charity Fundraising, and Love Tito’s for their donation of goods and professional services for the Gala.

We also would like to thank Lessings Hospitality for their support of our event, and for going above and beyond with services.

Special thanks to the Charles and Helen Reichert Family Foundation and the Vanderbilt Museum for hosting the Fifth Anniversary of Maggie’s Mission Angelversary Gala.

“Please remember we wear white in honor of Maggie. For anyone wishing to wear heels, we highly recommend bringing an extra pair of flats to wear during Cocktails in the Courtyard. See you tomorrow night for an evening of LOVE + HOPE!”
— Maggie's Mission

We can’t wait to be together again! Today is your last chance to buy tickets!

We can’t wait to be together again! Today is your last chance to buy tickets!

An evening of LOVE + HOPE

See you at our evening of LOVE + HOPE!

Team MM, and the “Gala Girls” have been hard at work. Making sure our Fifth Anniversary Angelversary Gala on Friday, June 3rd at the beautiful and historic Vanderbilt Museum, overlooking the Long Island Sound is our most special event yet! We’d like to thank Briana DiPardo, Samantha Laterza, Joan Motherway, and Janis Solotoff, for going above and beyond helping anywhere and everywhere needed.

Here’s just a sampling of what will be available to bid on and win:

Popular Apple products, Louis Vuitton pouch, Golden Goose sneakers, KITH/Columbia mens jacket and hat from Hirshleifers, rounds of golf with lunch, sports memorabilia, Rangers tickets, a treasure trove of genuine jewels, spa experiences, NYC stay with tickets to a Broadway show, multiple pieces of original art, a Solo Stove, a custom MM retro skateboard, With Love Tito’s basket, Yeti cooler filled with “spirits”, an Electra bicycle, gift cards galore, and two very special items - Maggie’s Bucket List trip to Iceland with airfare, hotel, and personal tour to “see the Northern Lights and 4 very special up-close and personal tickets to the Red Hot Chili Peppers 2022 World Tour at MetLife Stadium this summer! The concert tickets, good for Wednesday, August 17th in New Jersey were donated by Anthony Kiedis himself. Thank you Anthony for your kindness and LOVE!

Believe it or not, this is only a small sampling, there is literally too much to mention and something for everyone!

You think we’re kidding? Check out Briana swimming in a sea of MM baskets!

Our guest speakers

Jamie Wrede, a local Harborfields graduate, affected by Osteosarcoma, will be speaking, as well as Dr. Alex Kentsis, who heads the research project we fund at Memorial Sloan Kettering. Dr Kenstis just returned from Poland where he was helping to evacuate children with cancer from Ukraine.

In other news…

Maggie’s Mission was recognized by Stephanie Bontempi, the Suffolk County Legislature at the May 17th general meeting with the presentation of an official proclamation. We are so proud Maggie leaves behind a legacy of L O V E + H O P E.

Sometimes, it feels like she is still with us.

We were eating dinner out the other night feeling the loss of Maggie immensely. The restaurant had been playing music Maggie loved in the last year of her life, and we just felt sad. But then, and this happens often, we woke up to a generous donation and touching email…

“Hi, We saw your car in the parking lot of Ting. My curious 5 year old yelled with excitement “Maggie your car is beautiful!” I went to your website and read her touching story. I explained it best I could and he said…

“she’s my new friend, Maggie””
— A local Mom

How incredibly poignant. We thanked them for the donation and heartfelt, joyous words and were treated to another message. This is what our organization is all about - children, their wonderful innocence, and keeping them safe!

“ “I truly believe your beautiful angel is helping make children’s lives better in big ways and small. Today Levi, my son, said to me in the car “I’m on the lookout for Maggie” and smiled as he looked out the window.

Something about Maggie resonated with him and for that I am grateful.”
— A local Mom

Thank you Mom, we are grateful too. For always… we love and miss you Maggie.

Maggie’s Angelversary

Our event is three weeks away!

Our largest fundraising event - Maggie’s Mission Fifth Anniversary Angelversary Gala is three weeks from today. It marks 5 years since our only daughter Maggie passed away. We wish we could see her again, we wonder what would she look like now, and who would she be? So much changes in our lives in 5 years. We are older and feel it. Grief has definitely contributed to that.

We recently shared a new page on our site which provides a glimpse at our first two Angelversary Galas, and what this event and day means to us. When Maggie was 14, she was asked by her Aunt Alicia, and Uncle Michael, along with her cousins, to be a bridesmaid at their wedding on June 1, 2014. It was a beautiful wedding on a spectacular spring day which was held at the Montauk Yacht Club, a place our family and Maggie loved.

When Maggie passed away, the fact that she had died on such a monumental day in our lives, and hers, a day which held such special memories for us, never entered our minds. We were too caught up in shock, disbelief, and sadness to think about anything else. It has now become a day forever etched into our hearts and minds.

Our very first Angelversary Gala was held exactly a year to the day that Maggie died, on June 1, 2018, at the very same location that the wedding was held at - the Montauk Yacht Club. Here is a link with photos from the events.

And now, here we are, 5 years later, finally able to come together once again to celebrate and honor Maggie with so much L O V E in our hearts.

We H O P E you’ll join us at the beautiful and historic Vanderbilt Museum in Centerport, NY overlooking the Long Island Sound. Our Gala “girls” have been working really hard to put together a beautiful evening for all of our family, friends, and supporters to help us give back in the wake of such tragedy.

They’ll be a string quartet with cocktails and hors d'oeuvres in the Courtyard (weather permitting), followed by a champagne toast in the Celebration Tent, along with top shelf full open bar, dinner, music, dancing, and exclusive silent auction items and raffles, including a chance to win one of Maggie’s Bucket List Items! A trip for two to see the Northern Lights in Iceland, including hotel stay, jeep tour, and airfare, all generously donated by Audley Travel, ESKIMOS, and Iceland Air. Thank you!

Jamie Wrede, a fellow Harborfields student currently attending Quinnipiac University, will be our guest speaker at the event. Jamie reached out and asked to be a part of the evening and we are grateful to her for sharing her experience after being diagnosed with Osteosarcoma.

Jamie writes “My name is Jamie Wrede, I am currently 18 years old. I was originally diagnosed with osteosarcoma (bone cancer) in 2014 in my leg. I was treated at Memorial Sloan Kettering in New York City. Under the care of multiple doctors, I went through multiple different types of treatments and surgeries for my initial treatment and relapses to get to be where I am today. I am so beyond grateful to have the opportunity to speak at the Maggie’s Mission Gala this year to help raise awareness for cancer!” Thank you Jamie, see you soon!

Click the link below to attend a wonderful event and cause, to hear Jamie’s story, and dance the night away at a spectacular place. We miss you Maggie - always and forever, and wish you were here celebrating life with us.

With L O V E + H O P E to see you there…

No April Fool’s Joke

We love you Maggie Schmidt!

We love you Maggie Schmidt!

April is the beginning of some very difficult memories for us. April is the month we were told that the chemo and clinical trials we tried were not working and that we would have to face the terrifying fact that Maggie was going to die. April is also her birthday month, she would be turning 17. It’s the month we sang Happy Birthday to her for the last time.

As we approach what should be Maggie’s 22nd birthday, we have some very meaningful and important events coming up that we'd love to see all of our community, supporters, and friends attend. The first is a blood drive in honor of what should be Maggie's 22nd birthday on Tuesday, April 19th from 1-7pm at the Greenlawn Fire Department in Greenlawn, NY. Maggie received countless transfusions when in treatment and while they didn't save her, they helped us have more time together. Click the link below to schedule your appointment to donate blood and help save a life, in honor of Maggie, her birthday, and other children and adults facing cancer.

Our next event is the Fifth Anniversary of Maggie's Mission Angelversary Gala at the Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum and Planetarium in Centerport, NY on Friday, June 3rd. This year marks 5 years since we've held our only daughter. If you knew Maggie, you'd know she loved children. Before she died, she asked us to help save children from suffering. We've helped many children and families in the face of great tragedy and suffering, and will continue to do so much more with your support.

Please help us honor Maggie on what promises to be an impactful evening of love + hope at a beautiful, historic location overlooking the Long Island Sound, where Maggie would have had her prom pictures taken if she had lived. There will be cocktails under the stars in the courtyard, with music by the Luminous Strings Quartet (a Maggie favorite), followed by a champagne toast (another Maggie favorite), dinner, dancing, and wonderful raffles and silent auction items.

We are very grateful to come together again after two years. We miss you Maggie. For always.

With much L O V E and
H O P E to see you there…
Donna and the Team at Maggie's Mission.

A Valentine’s Day true story.

Maggie, 5 years ago today, I had picked up our new car - what we now call the MM mobile. We bought the AudiQ7 to try and make our numerous weekly trips into Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in NYC just a bit more bearable and comfortable for you. 

February 13, 2017 was the only night of your entire illness that I wasn’t near you, hovering close by, always, in case there was an unexpected emergency, of which there were many. Too many Maggie.

On a cold winters day, February 14th, I drove back to you, your dad, and your brother Steven. I arrived to your room with flowers, a card, and a teddy bear. You were sitting up in bed, putting on makeup so you could have some normalcy and spend some time in MSK’s teen center.

You looked at me so seriously, and said “Mom, don’t ever leave me again.” I promised you I wouldn’t. But just a few short minutes later, your Dad and I were called away by your oncologist. It was bad news. The 4 rounds of chemo and your major surgery did nothing to stop the cancer. The tumors were growing. Your dad and I sat there frantically trying to understand and process what we were just told. Begging the oncologist for some other treatment option. We were gone for over an hour.

When we came back into the room, you were angry. Asking where we were and why I left so soon after being told not to go.

How could we tell you? Our beautiful daughter who had been through so much already that the awful chemo and surgery you endured didn’t work? On Valentine’s Day.

We didn’t tell you. We made up a story for our absence.

It’s impossible to process all you went through. Nothing we tried saved you.

And here we are, almost 5 years later. Missing you more than ever. We’ve held numerous fundraisers and events in your honor. Some of our largest events have had to be cancelled due to the pandemic.

Yet, children are still being diagnosed with cancer and there is still a huge need for funding to find better treatment options so no parent ever has to say goodbye to their child like we did you.

June 1, 2017 is the day you died and left us, broken, and trying to make sense of a world without you. We miss you beyond measure.

It’s hard to believe we are planning our fifth Anniversary of the Maggie’s Mission Angelversary Gala.

We hope our friends, loyal supporters, and family will join us on Friday, June 3, 2022 at the Vanderbilt Museum in Centerport, NY as we raise a glass of champagne - your favorite, to honor you, your pure love of children, and to celebrate your life which was cut way too short by a sudden, rare, and aggressive cancer.

Please visit the link below to learn more about this amazing event held under the stars at the Vanderbilt Museum where you should have had your prom pictures taken.

Maggie’s Mission proudly supports the research being done by Dr. Alex Kentsis at MSK Kids to find cures, and treatment options for MRT (Malignant Rhabdoid Tumors), the disease that affected Maggie suddenly and without warning.

Good in 2022!

The good we will do in 2022…

Maggie’s Mission started 2022 with our Fifth Annual Maggie’s Mile! It’s hard to believe the race has been held for 5 consecutive years in a row, including 2021 which was a virtual event. This year’s race was a wonderful success and many supporters and racers came with smiles on, and ready to run. The event was even featured on News12. For race results and photos please visit our new Maggie’s Mile page.

We also kicked off 2022 by donating a New Year’s Day dinner to families staying at Ronald McDonald House NY. MM is committed to helping RMH-NY with meals throughout the upcoming year.

Cool News!

We’re excited to announce Maggie’s Mission has been chosen as an Official Charity Partner of the United Airlines NYC Half Marathon on Sunday, March 20, 2022. Fundraising bibs went quickly and Team Maggie’s Mission runners are already pounding the pavement both literally and figuratively by training and fundraising to help expand our reach and impact. Please visit our web page with links to support their efforts! We can’t wait for race day, where you will find us cheering on our runners in the Big Apple for an exciting day for all!

2022 Angelversary Gala, Friday, June 3rd.

We hope you will join us Friday, June 3, 2022 for the 5th Anniversary of Maggie’s Mission Angelversary Gala at the beautiful Vanderbilt Museum, a supporter of Maggie’s Mission. The historic Museum overlooking Northport Harbor in Centerport will serve as the backdrop for a milestone evening as we celebrate Maggie’s life. The event will include a string quartet from Luminous Sounds during cocktail hour, music, dancing, full open bar, buffet dinner, fundraising baskets, and a silent auction. Stay tuned for details. Contact us to become a sponsor.

Now you can fundraise for MM too!

Our new partnership with MobileCause will provide everyone with an incredible opportunity to now fundraise for Team Maggie’s Mission by giving you the tools to create fundraising events and teams on your own! Got an idea or need an idea for a fun(draiser)? The sky’s the limit! Check out Maggie’s Bucket List she made for some serious inspiration and reach out to Team MM to find out more!

We look forward with great anticipation and excitement to all the good we will do in 2022! Happy and Healthy New Year to our supporters and volunteers!

A very special thanks to all of you…

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Founded in September 2017, after losing our 17 year old daughter Maggie Schmidt to cancer on June 1, 2017.
Maggie’s Mission™, Inc. is an official non-profit 501 (c)(3) organization, IRS identification number 82-2851432. Donations made to Maggie’s Mission are tax deductible in the U.S. Checks can be made out to Maggie’s Mission Inc., 51 Boulevard Ave., Greenlawn, NY 11740.

Email us here.

 
 

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