When Beth and Brad Thorp lost their son Mitchell at 18 years of age, their world changed forever. What began as a desperate search for answers during Mitchell’s unexplained illness became a journey no parent should ever face. At just 13, Mitchell’s health began to decline. For five years, the Thorps traveled across the country, meeting with specialists and pursuing countless tests, hoping for a diagnosis that never came.
In the midst of heartbreak, they made a life-changing decision. They would turn their pain into purpose.
In 2009, they founded the Mitchell Thorp Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting families whose children are battling cancer, rare diseases, and other life-threatening medical conditions by providing financial, emotional and other resources to assist with their desperate situations. What began as a tribute to their son has grown into a lifeline for families in crisis, offering stability when life feels overwhelming.
The foundation serves families through five core programs that address both financial and emotional needs.
Medical and Home Assistance helps cover treatments, co-pays, housing expenses, utilities, groceries, and gas cards. This support eases the financial pressure that often forces parents to choose between work and staying by their child’s bedside.
Champion Day provides joyful one-day family experiences that create lasting memories during difficult seasons.
Healing and Rehabilitation funds physical therapy, medical equipment, counseling, nutrition sessions, and sibling programs, recognizing that serious illness impacts the entire family.
ADA Conversions support accessibility renovations and mobility vehicles, helping children gain greater independence at home and in their communities.
Youth Leadership Council empowers high school students in grades 9 through 12 to serve and lead, inspiring the next generation to give back.
Since its founding, the Mitchell Thorp Foundation has provided more than $4.8 million in direct aid and support. Families report a 25-50 percent reduction in medical and equipment costs. The organization also shares a powerful milestone: a 100 percent success rate in helping families remain together through crisis. In addition, more than 8,700 gifts have been delivered to children and families in need.
Community support fuels this impact. Signature events such as the Warrior Spirit 5K Run and Walk, Hope Basket Drive, Par for a Purpose Golf Event, and Holiday Toy Drive bring together volunteers, corporate partners, and local supporters who believe in giving families hope.
Beth Thorp has also shared her family’s journey through storytelling. Her memoir, ANEW Creation, reflects faith, loss, and resilience. In 2023, she adapted the book into a screenplay that earned The Spirit of Capra Award at the Life Fest Film Festival. The project is now being pitched as a feature film.
Over the years, Beth and Brad have received numerous honors for their leadership and philanthropy. Yet for them, the greatest reward is not recognition. It is seeing a family breathe a little easier, knowing they are not alone.
Through compassion, strength, and unwavering commitment, Beth and Brad Thorp have transformed personal tragedy into a lasting legacy, ensuring that Mitchell’s spirit lives on in every child and family they have given hope.
www.mitchellthorp.org
