Our Story
In 2003, Andie McConnell discovered the profound struggles faced by families dealing with pediatric cancer. This journey began when she befriended a family whose son was a brain cancer survivor. The emotional weight of their experiences inspired Andie to take action. In 2009, after another child was diagnosed with a rare form of pediatric brain cancer, she initiated fundraising efforts to alleviate the financial burdens these families faced. This led to the birth of the Fairy Godmother Project, a nonprofit dedicated to easing the hardships of families navigating the challenges of pediatric cancer.
Through surveys and conversations with affected families, it became clear that many were grappling with feelings of isolation and a lack of support. The Fairy Godmother Project was established to provide essential services such as cooked meals, professional house cleaning, lawn care, and gas and grocery cards. Since the inception of our Financial Relief Fund in 2014, we have been able to assist families by paying their bills twice a year, ensuring they can focus on what truly matters—spending time together.
In addition to practical support, the Fairy Godmother Project offers families the gift of professional photography sessions. This initiative, driven by co-founder Stephanie Johnson, captures precious moments and connections, providing families with lasting memories during difficult times. In 2015, we expanded our mission to include support for families facing the end of their child’s life, offering emotional and financial assistance, funeral arrangements, and group support sessions to foster community and healing.