The KeepSmilin4Abbie Foundation was founded in early 2014 in memory of Abbie Benford, who lost her life from anaphylaxis just eight days before her 16th birthday.
Cooking separate food, eating special meals and double checking ingredients, Abbie was always cautious about her food allergies. However, she never let them define her.
Abbie seized every opportunity to meet new people and try something new. She especially loved to try new foods (after checking ingredients, of course!). Every trip to Whole Foods became an adventure to find safe food and try something new. Although she was at risk of anaphylaxis her entire life, she was never inhibited by it. Abbie’s spirited demeanor and infectious laugh are what make her the loved and dearly missed daughter, sister, friend and classmate she is today.
Anaphylaxis can be triggered by food, insect stings, medicine, or latex. Anaphylaxis has not only affected us, but many other Americans as well. In fact, fifteen million Americans are at risk of anaphylaxis, just like Abbie.
Abbie’s death is the catalyst that created the KeepSmilin4Abbie Foundation. Our mission is simple: #stopanaphylaxis.
Meet The Team
Board of Trustees
Stephen Benford
Trustee, Co-founder & Executive Director, Abbie’s Father
Amy Benford
Trustee, Co-founder, Abbie’s Mother
David Benford
Trustee, Abbie’s Brother
Patrick Doering
Trustee, Family Friend
Kathy Rocha
Trustee, Family Friend
Operating Committee
Our all-volunteer organization gets things done through our amazing Operating Committee, pictured here
(LR) Stephen Benford, Jean Bertschmann, Laura Saklad, Amy Benford, John Zack, Scott Benford, Kim Bianchi, Kim Puig
(Not Pictured) Jennie Bogaert, Scott Sanfason, Joan Bannon, Kathy Rocha, Mark Rocha, Jen Jones, Ben Matthews
