Mike and Chris McNeal, owners of McNeal Transit Group located in Newnan, established a non-profit organization in January, 2008 in order to be more strategic with their charitable giving. The McNeal Family Foundation is a non-profit organization committed to serving local families who have been affected by childhood cancer. The foundation was established in honor of their niece, Hannah, who was diagnosed with childhood leukemia at age four. In addition to serving families, the foundation supports several local organizations that fit within the McNeal Family Foundation’s mission and purpose.

The McNeal Family Foundation provides support to families throughout the year. Last year the foundation extended a helping hand to local high school student, Jake Weaver, who was diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a rare and aggressive bone cancer. Jake was 17 years old when he was diagnosed. Upon diagnosis, scans revealed that Jake’s cancer had metastasized to his lungs. Jake endured a regimen of nine moths of aggressive chemo treatments at Children’s at Egelston. He underwent surgery to save his leg and several other surgical procedures including a procedure that removed nodules from his lungs. Jake celebrated his 18th birthday on December 6, 2008 and he also celebrated the fact that his most recent CT scans revealed that the nodules have not returned. He will return for a follow-up scan in May.

“The McNeals were there for us when we needed them the most. They treated Jake like family and made Jake’s journey a little easier to endure. We have been blessed to live in such an amazing community. A community that has been there for us from the beginning,” said Diana Noe.

The foundation has approved a grant application this year for a local 10 year old little girl named Taylor Hulsey. Taylor was diagnosed with a brain tumor in February of 2007. Since that time she has undergone cancer treatments for this very rare form of cancer called glioblastoma multiforme. It is very uncommon for this type of cancer to be seen in children.

“We are going to do everything possible to help Taylor and her family through this difficult time,” said Chris McNeal.

Wrapped with Love is a program of the foundation that is providing soft, beautiful fleece blankets for children battling cancer. Blankets are provided to children served through the McNeal Family Foundation and to children throughout the community who have been diagnosed with cancer, while supplies last. Blankets may be requested by an adult family member, friend of the child, or by a health care provider by contacting the foundation’s office. Those wishing to make a donation to help provide a blanket for a child may do so by visiting the foundation’s website or by calling the office.

“We are touched by the charitable nature of our local community. There are many worthy causes in need of funds. We are more grateful than ever for individuals and local businesses who feel passionate about the work we are doing, and are demonstrating that by volunteering with our organization, making charitable donations to support our work, or by offering in-kind donations. The children and families we are blessed to serve are enduring challenges and pain that no one should have to face. We are thankful to help these families and we are thankful for a community that cares so much,” stated Chris McNeal.

The McNeal Family Foundation held its very first fundraiser in August 2008 and it will hold its second annual event this year on Saturday, August 22. The foundation hosts only one fundraising event each year. A Fabulous Night In Vegas, an evening that includes dinner, beverages, live and silent auctions, door prizes, music and your favorite games provided by CCP Events, Inc. Tickets are $75 per person. The event location this year is the Coweta Club at Arbor Springs. Over 250 guests attended last year’s event, so be sure to book your tickets early. For additional event details, please visit the foundation’s website at www.mcnealfamilyfoundatin.org or call the office number at 770-463-3261.

For more details please contact Chris McNeal at 770-463-3261 or visit the foundation’s website at www.mcnealfamilyfoundation.org

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