About us
Founded by a survivor. Run with empathy.
Mission of Hope Cancer Fund is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded by a cancer survivor in November 1994. For more than 30 years, we have provided direct financial assistance to cancer patients across Michigan.
Our purpose
To provide direct financial assistance to cancer patients, while sharing educational information and emotional and grief support on cancer-related issues.
Our vision
“To become a recognizable cancer charity, providing direct financial assistance to cancer patients with efficiency and empathy.”
We cut the red tape
We work to minimize the time between a request for help and the assistance a client receives.
Every dollar helps patients
All funds raised benefit individual cancer patients and their families. Funds are not used for research.
Rooted in Michigan
Financial assistance is available to residents of the state of Michigan. We are not associated with any other charity group.
Beyond the bills
We also share educational information and help families find emotional and grief support on cancer-related issues.
Rock E. Mangus
Founder
Our founder
“The reason for what we do.”
Rock E. Mangus was diagnosed with terminal colon cancer in February 1993. While going through his own treatment, he became aware that many patients had special financial needs that weren't being met. He decided to do his best to help, and started Mission of Hope Cancer Fund in November 1994.
Rock passed away in January 2026. His mission lives on in every family we help.
Today MHCF helps relieve the added financial demands placed on people with cancer and the families who care for them: medical equipment, prescriptions, insurance premiums, transportation to and from treatment, housing for out-of-town care, and other medical costs.
MHCF is one of fewer than 5% of cancer charities in the U.S. that provide direct financial assistance to cancer patients of all ages and all cancers.
An individual stricken with cancer should focus their time and energy on recovery, and if not recovery, the full enjoyment of life, rather than the financial concerns that come with treatment.
The MHCF philosophy
Leadership
Our board of directors.
The people who guide our mission, from Jackson and the communities around it.
Tyler Swartout
Chairman & Treasurer
- Melling Tool
- Horton, MI
- 2000 & 2002 Gracie Crockett Memorial Volunteer Award
Bill Nurmi
Board Secretary
- LMSW, CAADC, MBA
- Chelsea, MI
Maria Ethridge
Executive Director
- Mission of Hope Cancer Fund
- Spring Arbor, MI
Kellie S. Horner
Board Member
- Jackson, MI
In the community
Powered by neighbors who show up.
From golf outings to community events, local supporters make every grant possible.
Client stories
What a little help means.
“Thank you for the gas card, it came at the right time, and for the welcome package. It gave me the biggest smile, one that I haven't had in a long time.”
KKaren P.Charlotte, MI “Just wanted to say thank you very much for your donation in this time of need. As we fight cancer, it is a relief to know that there are people like you who still care.”
JJeffrey M.Oscoda, MI “The travel assistance was a huge help. Traveling out of state for treatment has been costly, so with an upcoming appointment it helped ease some financial stress that MHCF was able to cover the fuel to get me there.”
MMHCF ClientTravel assistance recipient
You don't have to do this alone
Need help with the cost of cancer care?
Start with our Client Assistance Form. We'll call you to talk through your needs, usually in about 15 to 20 minutes.
Want to help instead? See ways to give