The Jake Cavanaugh Foundation

Wow - It takes my breath away to even type these words but WE NEED YOUR HELP.

You likely already know Annabelle and the Totta Family. Maybe you are more familiar with Anna, AB, or Bug. No matter how you know Anna, you know that she is an amazing young lady and a force to be reckoned with. She is my niece but serves our community in so many other ways - a daughter, a sister, a granddaughter, a cousin, a teammate, a friend, a babysitter, a student, a classmate, and so importantly, a best friend to many.

On December 6th Anna was diagnosed with bone cancer, a malignant tumor on her left humerus bone. We are still shocked that this active all-state athlete, this strong, smiley, caring, young lady, this smart college committed 4.0 student has CANCER.

Annabelle is a current Grain Valley High School Student and is committed to play collegiate soccer at Truman State University. She is the middle child and only daughter of Frank and Trish Totta. Frank and Trish are both St. Mary’s High School alumni (Independence) and active in both the Grain Valley and Blue Springs Communities. Annabelle and her siblings, Chase (14) and Ben (22), attended St. John LaLande grade school and Anna has been on countless sports teams – including The Blazers (Kelly Sears), KC Elite (Jeff O’Neill), Kansas Elite (Michael Novicoff), and Grain Valley basketball programs and Summit Soccer (Tim Maret), KC Rebels(Glen Flanagan), KCSG (Chris Travalent), KC Athletics (Brad Childers), and Grain Valley soccer programs.

Even with the devastating news, – we are counting our blessings. KU Medical Systems and Childrens Mercy oncology team have been incredible so far. Friends and family have showered us with care and Anna continues with her no quit attitude. She is ready for this fight!

We are partnering with the Jake Cavanaugh Foundation. The Cavanaughs are personal friends and have been a great resource for information. They will ensure 100% of the funds donated are accessible to the Totta family as Annabelle begins treatment. The funds will be used to offset medical expenses and ensure Trish and Frank have the funds to focus on Annabelle’s care.

With that said;

1. If you are in a position to give, please consider giving to this incredibly personal cause. No amount is too small and everything is appreciated.

2. Please follow Annabelle’s story at Caringbridge.

3. Please contact me for any additional fund-raising opportunities.

4. Please pray for the Totta family. Prayer is powerful and we need all that we can get.

5. Keep us laughing, after all laughter is the best medicine.

There are already so many thank yous to give. Your kindness and support have touched our hearts in ways I find hard to put into words. In moments like these, we are reminded of the power of community and how we make a significant impact on each other’s lives each and every day. We can not thank you enough and are committed to paying it forward.

The Totta, Flanagan, and Mosbauer families

Finally, to Anna, if you are reading this, Slay the Freakin Day – every day, girl! Please feel the love, and be empowered by the enormous support and impact of the people surrounding you.