Maria’s Field of Hope was first planted by the Prayers from Maria Foundation in Avon, Ohio in 2013, to draw attention to the lack of funding for childhood cancer. The field was inspired by the memory and spirit of Maria McNamara, who died at age seven on July 14, 2007 from a glioma – the second highest cause of cancer deaths in young people. The field is a way to love and honor the courageous children who are battling cancer and those we have lost.
Maria’s parents, Ed and Megan, said, “We did everything humanly possible to save our daughter, but in the end, we could only helplessly stand by as she endured the unimaginable. Through it all, Maria showed tremendous character and dignity. Her strength, her courage and, most of all, her faith, left marks on our souls that have changed us forever. She never thought of herself. Instead, she chose to pray for all children suffering from cancer and their families. She prayed that the doctors would find a way to help them. She is our hero and her fight became our inspiration. Her prayers became our mission.”
This photo was taken at Maria's Field of Hope and is available for purchase for your home or office. (It will NOT have the logos seen here.) It was enhanced with Topaz Labs “Studio” software. If you make a purchase through this affiliate link (Topaz Labs “Studio” software) – you'll help support this blog at no cost to you – allowing me to continue sharing information like this for your education and enjoyment. Win/Win! Thanks. [Photo: Mark Madere | SpectraLight Photography]
Ed and Megan are dedicated to funding global research into the cause, prevention, treatments and cure for childhood brain tumors. The foundation has an impressive Medical Board that consists of some of the best doctors in the country for this disease.
Because childhood gliomas are grossly underfunded, the McNamara family is diligently working to make a difference by raising public awareness and bringing hope to children and their families who live with this disease. The Foundation has awarded hundreds of thousands of dollars in grants for desperately needed research.
A second field was planted in Sandusky, Ohio in 2019. The sunflowers draw thousands of visitors from across the country.
Discover more about this worthy cause at www.PrayersFromMaria.org and donate to support cancer research in Maria’s memory at www.PrayersFromMaria.org/donate.
Have you been to Maria's Field of Hope? Do you know a child who has cancer? How has that affected you? Please comment below.
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