Ridgefielders launch Ella Jewell Foundation in honor of their daughter & work toward a cure for Neutropenia

You might know Kristin and Robert McGuinness - they are parents to three Ridgefield Academy students, Ella Jewell, a third grader, second grader Alexa, and Keira, who is in preschool. Kristin is also the founder of award-winning party and event company for kids, Sparklicious.

When Ella, Kristen, and Robert’s youngest daughter, was just three months old, she was diagnosed with Severe Congenital Neutropenia, a condition that causes frequent infections due to a shortage of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell that helps to fight infection. “Currently, Ella takes a medication that she responds very well to but it’s the only medication available to children with this diagnosis,” explains Kristin, who adds, “Many children with Neutropenia suffer from frequent bacterial infections, prolonged hospital stays and other related problems.”

In an effort to allow for research, offer medication options, and fight for a cure for those diagnosed with Neutropenia, eight years ago Kristin and Robert launched Ella Jewell Foundation. “We want families to have the proper resources and options for treatment. Our mission is to make a difference and help fund this much-needed research,” says Kristin. 

The Ella Jewell Foundation is the only foundation in America currently raising funds for research. “Every penny we raise is donated - our charity doesn’t take administrative fees,” says Kristin. “We have visited the research facility in Seattle and we know that our money is being put to good use,” she adds.

How can you help Ella Jewell and all those who suffer from Neutropenia? You can attend one of the many local fundraising events organized by the McGuinness family. The Ella Jewell Foundation is hosting a Halloween Themed Bowling and  Racing Event at Spins in Mt. Kisco (333 N. Bedford Road, the “Grand Prix” facility) on October 21st from 4 PM – 7 PM.  Tickets can be purchased in advance, online at www.ellajewellfoundation.org.   

Can’t attend the October 21st event? You can also support the foundation by making a contribution here. 

But the support doesn’t end locally. Kristin says, “Several families affected by Neutropenia from all over the country have since joined forces with us. There is a family in Ohio that hosts an event at Dave & Busters every year, a family in Kentucky that sells pumpkins that they grow and harvest. There have been galas, wine tastings, bowling events, races, bike rides and many more events held throughout the country.”

All of the funds raised by the Ella Jewell Foundation are donated to research efforts at the University of Washington and patient support services through the National Neutropenia Network.

Learn more and support Ella Jewell and all of the families impacted by Neutropenia here.