Mitchell's Story
Mitchell Thorp passed away on November 19, 2008, after a five-year battle with an undiagnosed and debilitating medical condition. Born and raised in Carlsbad, California, Mitchell was a devoted baseball player and a 4.0 student before this mysterious illness profoundly changed his life.
Baseball & Early Life: Mitchell grew up playing baseball from the age of 5. Coached by his father Brad (a former AA Dodger pitcher) Mitchell played in leagues like La Costa Youth Baseball, Carlsbad Youth Baseball and onto travel ball.
Onset of critical medical condition: In early 2004, during 7th grade, Mitchell began suffering from intense headaches and declining concentration. By 8th grade, the pain escalated, and he could no longer attend school.
Medical Journey October 2004: Multiple tests at San Diego Children’s Hospital revealed no diagnosis. Early 2005 Mitchell endured more testing and treatments, including cranial evaluation in Florida, yielded no answers as symptoms worsened. June-July 2005: Treated at UCLA Pain Center and immediately rushed to Children’s Hospital Los Angeles amid his continuous seizures, tremors, and weight loss. They surgically put in a G-Tube in to help with his weight loss but after 30 days and countless doctors and tests his condition remained elusive, though later suspected heavy metal toxicity or some type of Lyme disease affecting his central nervous system. All this time Mitchell was unable to speak, walk and could not open his eyes for long periods of time. The parents were told to put him on Palliative Care, take him home and make him comfortable.
Early Support & Fundraising: Brad & Beth never gave up hope. They put a care team together to treat him which included at Nutritionist, Osteopath, Physical therapist, his Pastor and prayer team. A walkathon fundraising event was organized to HELP MITCHELL in May 2006, where Mitchell appeared in his wheelchair being pushed by his father and family by his side.
Final Days: After 5 long years of ongoing care and treatment attempts across the country. Mitchell passed away at Baylor Hospital, Texas on November 19, 2008, surrounded by his parents. His journey continues to inspire the Foundation’s mission to support and give hope to families whose children are battling cancer, rare diseases, and other critical medical conditions.
In the News
Mitchell Thorp Foundation’s mission to bring hope and relief to families has been recognized by local San Diego news outlets. These featured segments highlight real stories of impact, families receiving critical support, community partners stepping in to help, and the difference your generosity makes. Watch below to see how lives are being changed, and how together, we’re making sure no family faces their child’s illness alone.
