For The Community
Darren Miller has always been a firm believer that charity should play an important role in everyone’s life and that helping those who are less fortunate is not an option, but a necessity. As a result of these beliefs, Darren, along with Cathy Cartieri Mehl and their families, established Team Forever and the “Forever Fund” in December 2009. This foundation is dedicated to the memory of Mehl’s father, Anthony Frank Cartieri, and aids families in their struggle to afford the costs associated with infant cardiothoracic surgery that takes place in the cardiothoracic unit of UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh.
Without insurance, the families of children who are born with heart conditions and require life saving surgeries at a young age cannot afford to pay for those surgeries and related medical costs. UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh depends on Team Forever and charities such as the “Forever Fund” and generous donors, like you, to help families with children in need. Your contribution to the “Forever Fund” will not only help save lives, but will provide the opportunity for funding of vital medical research concerning infant cardiothoracic care.
What people are saying:
Darren Miller is the embodiment of courage, faith, and passion—I am in awe of the commitment he has made to the Forever Fund, which supports the cardiothoracic unit of Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC. He is a fierce competitor, with a heart of gold, and we are grateful for his passion.
Greg Barrett, President of the Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh Foundation
Darren Miller is a young man far beyond his years.
Felicia Besh, Close friend and Mentor
I was especially struck by how much your words touched and inspired my daughter. She's had two reconstructive knee surgeries in the past year and has had to fight her way back. She's had some low moments throughout and it was wonderful to close that car door and hear her say "Mom, that was the coolest thing ever!" and on and on... bubbling with an excitement that's been rare these past few months.
One of her comments to me was, "Mom, he just broke a world record a few weeks ago and he's standing here talking to us today, just like he's a regular person. He really is about community and giving back."
Your swimming achievements are awesome. Your work with the Forever Fund is inspiring and touches so many lives. Your enthusiasm and love of life is contagious. You are a remarkable, genuine, good person. We were blessed to hear your words and spend time with you this evening.
Dawn (Taken from a personal letter written by a speech attendee)