Some traditions are special because of the stories behind them. For us at LCM, our Thanksgiving giving tradition is exactly that—a moment each year when we choose to give by honoring the real people and real experiences that shape our lives.
Each year, we invite two members of our team to choose a charitable organization that is meaningful to them, and we make a donation on their behalf. Their selections grow out of personal experiences, challenges, or moments of gratitude. It has become a heartfelt tradition that enables us to live our mission to invest wisely, live abundantly, and give purposefully.
This year, Patrick Maxwell and Christina Todd selected two organizations connected by a shared thread of courage, early detection, and hope. We’re honored to share their stories with you.
This year’s giving choices
Patrick selected the Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF), the largest private funder of breast cancer research in the world. Their mission is focused and inspiring: to end breast cancer by advancing the world’s most promising research.
This became deeply personal for Patrick earlier this year when his mother-in-law was diagnosed with breast cancer. After noticing discomfort and what she thought might be a lump, she sought care at the Providence St. Jude Breast Center where everything moved quickly—from scans to surgery within a matter of weeks. “The process was scary,” shared Patrick, “but we felt comfort in the speed and clarity of the process. It made a world of difference during a time when everything felt so uncertain.”
Thankfully, she was able to complete her treatment through radiation alone and did not require chemotherapy. Today, she is healing and doing well, and Patrick and his family feel incredibly grateful. Selecting BCRF was a clear choice. “I know most people have had close contact with this form of cancer. That’s why my wife and I selected an organization focused on research. Our hope is that progress is achieved and millions of women and their families are provided better outcomes than in the past.”
Patrick also wants to personally thank the compassionate team at Providence St. Jude Breast Center, who guided his mother-in-law through every step of her treatment. “She felt very supported by and connected with her team at St. Jude. That made a huge difference for her and our entire family.”
With top ratings from Charity Navigator and a powerful record of accelerating scientific breakthroughs, BCRF gives donors a chance to support research that can truly change—and save—lives.
Christina’s selection also comes from a personal place. Her story began in 2011, when she was diagnosed with breast cancer at just 41 years old. With no risk factors and a long history of good health, the diagnosis came as a complete shock.
What ultimately saved her life was something simple but essential: she regularly checked herself. Years earlier, when she was studying for her Series 7 license, Christina’s instructor—a survivor—encouraged her to stay alert and be diligent about checking herself. That advice became a habit, and that habit led to early detection. “At 41, I’d been healthy my whole life,” she remembers. “My doctor told me that thanks to my age, my health, and no family history, there was a 98% chance that what I had felt wasn’t cancer. Sadly, my biopsy told a different story. Learning I had breast cancer changed everything and gave me a whole new perspective on life.”
Catching the cancer early made all the difference for Christina. But she knows not everyone is so fortunate. Five years after her own battle, Christina’s aunt passed away from the disease. Only a month later, her cousin was diagnosed as well. Thankfully, her cousin is now cancer free. These experiences deepened Christina’s commitment to raising awareness.
To support other women, Christina began participating in walks and local events with Susan G. Komen Orange County—something she has continued for more than 13 years. The organization is dedicated to awareness, screenings, education, and support, especially for women with limited access to care. “One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. Staying vigilant and knowing it can happen to you is the key to early detection and saving lives like my own.” Christina hopes her story inspires other women to prioritize their health and reminds them that early awareness can be lifesaving. Supporting Komen Orange County is her way of giving back to the community that lifted her up and helping others receive the same chance at early detection that she had.
Why our choices—and yours—matter
Though Patrick and Christina’s experiences are different, both remind us that early detection, compassionate care, and continued research can change the course of a family’s life. Their selections speak to resilience, gratitude, and the hope that more women will have access to the care and support they need.
As we move into this season of giving, we hope their stories encourage you to reflect on the causes that matter most in your own life. Whether you support these organizations or others close to your heart, your generosity plays a powerful role in strengthening our community and our world.
We are grateful for you, our client family, and wish you a warm, hopeful, and healthy holiday season.
