In November 2003, on behalf of her daughter, and family, and in partnership with Duke Children’s  Hospital, Michelle and her husband Andy, created Anna’s Angels– The Anna Michelle Merrills Foundation for Down Syndrome Research.

Anna’s Angels provides funds to promote laboratory and clinical research in Down syndrome. A Scientific Advisory panel of leading physicians from Duke University Medical Center as well as Michelle and Andy (Michelle’s husband) review the applications and issue the grants once a year. The foundation’s overall vision is to improve the cognitive and communicative ability of individuals with Down syndrome.

In just 7 years, Anna’s Angels Foundation has raised over $825,000 for Down syndrome research with the enduring generosity of family, friends and the local community. Their goal is to reach the $1 million dollar mark by January 2013.

“I started Anna’s Angels so Anna and other children with Down syndrome would have the best opportunity to live a healthy and independent life. I hope Anna’s Angels will be a gift to Anna and others with Down syndrome. Passion, love, vision, clarity, and dedication created Anna’s Angles and hope will keep me working for years to come.” – Michelle Pfeiffer, Director, Anna’s Angels

For more information please contact Michelle Pfeiffer, Director at info@annas-angels.org.