The M. Patrick Daniels Fund was established as a tribute to the unwavering spirit our son Patrick maintained through the challenges he met living with muscular dystrophy. Equally importantly, the fund was established to help make a difference to the causes and organizations which were important to Patrick.
Diagnosed at an early age with muscular dystrophy, a degenerative disease which eventually affects voluntary muscles, Patrick never let the disease define his life or limit his aspirations.
Even though Patrick was aware of both his physical limitations and shortened life expectancy, with determination and an uplifting spirit, he pursued his interests and passions. After graduating from Hampton High School, Patrick attended Wright State University in Dayton, Ohio graduating cum laude with a degree in political science. Patrick earned a law degree from the University of Pittsburgh School of Law in 2004. While in law school, Patrick interned with the Disabilities Law Project, the U.S. attorney’s office and the office of the Pennsylvania Supreme Court Chief Justice. Upon graduating law school, Patrick worked in the litigation department of the Buchanan Ingersoll law firm until his passing on Feb. 26, 2009.
Patrick had a most positive outlook on life. Children’s Hospital pulmonologist Dr. Jonathan Finder, who was Patrick’s primary physician for more than a decade, described Patrick as “a remarkable man, a heroic figure to me. It was a remarkable life because he did so much with so little. He served as an inspiration to go out and live life to its fullest. He didn’t accept his disabilities as necessarily limiting. He was very much a role model.”
It is difficult for parents to lose a child, especially an only child, creating a tremendous void and loss in their lives. Patrick’s parents, Margaret and Michael, decided that the most meaningful way in which they could honor their son was to create the M. Patrick Daniels Fund at The Pittsburgh Foundation. This fund will grant annually, and forever so long as the needs exist through their legacy gift, those organizations and initiatives that Patrick felt were important and would have a positive impact on individuals, families and communities in general.
Read more about the M. Patrick Daniels Fund's giving priorities and about his family's story
The family is pleased to be able to honor their son by giving back to the community that gave so much to them. They feel a real sense of satisfaction to know that, long after they are all gone, the family’s legacy will continue forever through Patrick’s fund.
Thank you for supporting the M. Patrick Daniels Fund and its initiatives.
Photo at top: Wright State University in 2000.
Photo at bottom: University of Pittsburgh School of Law in 2004.