Growing up, I witnessed firsthand the relentless grip of chronic illness. My parents, Charlie E. and Minnie P. Hendrix, were remarkable individuals who lived with debilitating conditions yet never allowed their ailments to define them. Despite their struggles, they always found a way to give back to the community, embodying a spirit of generosity and resilience that has profoundly shaped my life. This is the story of why I started the Charlie E & Minnie P Hendrix Foundation, in their honor.

A Legacy of Compassion

Charlie and Minnie Hendrix were more than just my parents; they were my heroes. Despite their battles with chronic illnesses, they never lost their sense of compassion and duty to others. I vividly remember my mother, weak from her own health struggles, cooking meals for our neighbors who were also in need. My father, despite his constant pain, would volunteer at the local shelter, offering a kind word and a helping hand to those who had fallen on hard times. Their selflessness and strength taught me the true meaning of community and empathy.

My Own Battle

 I was diagnosed with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), a chronic autoimmune disease that attacks my body's tissues and organs. Over the years, SLE has led to complications, including heart failure and blood disorders. The journey has been excruciating, marked by countless hospital visits, medication regimens, and days when getting out of bed felt like an insurmountable challenge. Yet, through it all, I carried the lessons of my parents with me, finding solace in the belief that my suffering had a purpose.

A Calling to Serve

Watching my parents give selflessly to others, even in the face of their own suffering, ignited a fire within me. It became clear that my calling was to continue their legacy of compassion and service, particularly for those in underserved communities who often face the greatest challenges with the fewest resources. This calling led to the birth of the Charlie E & Minnie P Hendrix Foundation.

The Foundation’s Mission

The Charlie E & Minnie P Hendrix Foundation is dedicated to providing support, education, and resources to individuals and families affected by chronic illnesses, particularly in underserved communities. Our programs aim to alleviate the burdens of these conditions through comprehensive support systems, from financial assistance to educational workshops and emotional support groups. Every initiative is infused with the spirit of my parents' legacy—unwavering support and unconditional love.

A Heartfelt Appeal

Starting this foundation was not just a professional endeavor; it was a deeply personal mission. I wanted to create something that would reflect the love and compassion that my parents instilled in me. Through the foundation, I aim to provide the same hope and support that my parents offered to others, ensuring that their legacy of kindness and resilience continues to touch lives.

Every donation, every volunteer hour, every act of kindness extended through our foundation is a tribute to Charlie and Minnie Hendrix. Their story, our story, is one of finding strength in adversity, hope in despair, and love in the face of pain. It is a testament to the power of giving back, even when you have little to give.

Join Us

I invite you to join us in this mission. Whether through donations, volunteering, or simply spreading the word about our cause, your support can make a profound difference. Together, we can continue the legacy of Charlie and Minnie Hendrix, bringing hope and healing to those who need it most.

Thank you for taking the time to read our story. Your compassion and support mean the world to us and to the countless individuals and families we aim to help. Together, we can make a lasting impact, one act of kindness at a time.



Warm regards,

Susan Hendrix Founder, Charlie E & Minnie P Hendrix Foundation