The Go Mitch Go Foundation was founded in 2009 to honor the memory of Mitchell Graham Whitaker who died of Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia (ALL) at the age of 10 in 2007. Inspired by Mitchell's passion for sports, warrior spirit and last words, "Keep fighting," the foundation strives to raise money for critical blood cancer research by supporting endurance athletes as they train.The Whitakers, along with friends and family, began to fundraise for blood cancer research in 2005; however, it wasn't until 2008 that John and Tracy recognized the need for an organization that allowed for year-round fundraising for the cause. In 2009, the Go Mitch Go Foundation received its 501c3 designation from the IRS. Since then, the foundation has filled a unique role, acting as a holding tank or "pass through" where fundraisers may raise funds for Go Mitch Go's beneficiaries. Since 2007, Go Mitch Go has raised nearly $900,000 to fund blood cancer research.The Go Mitch Go Foundation is a proud supporter of the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. In 2013, the Go Mitch Go Foundation began a partnership with the MIT David H. Koch Center for Integrative Cancer Research, which will also benefit from funds raised through the foundation.In order to raise funds for critical blood cancer research, the Go Mitch Go Foundation has created a three-tiered program that supports athletes in all stages of training for endurance sport events including everything from 5k's to Ironman competitions. A powerful metaphor for the for the struggles that cancer patients and their families face every day, we believe that harnessing our athletes' passion for endurance sports along with their passion to help others is an effective way the foundation can support this important cause.As of 2014, Go Mitch Go has chapters in Austin, Texas and Oklahoma City. In the coming years, the foundation hopes to expand and share Mitchell's story in new cities across the country.