Our Mission

To generate research that fundamentally transforms diagnostic and treatment paradigms for young people with neuroimmune disorders by determining the mechanisms by which inflammatory, immune, and/or infectious processes can lead to psychiatric symptoms.

A growing number of children, adolescents, and young adults are experiencing Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infection (PANDAS) and Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS). These are devastating neuroimmune conditions which can be triggered by a common infection, including strep, pneumonia, and COVID-19. Because PANS and PANDAS are organically based and immune-mediated, prompt diagnosis and medical treatment can yield better outcomes and restore – and even save – lives. Families with children suffering from these conditions face a shocking lack of resources and understanding. Only through increased research will diagnostic and therapeutic care improve.

Our Story

A dedicated group of parents, clinicians, scientists and business leaders in greater Boston, Massachusetts, is guiding the Mending Minds Foundation (MMF) to partner with world-class scientists in the hub of international research and discovery.  Our goal is to support excellence in clinical care while providing sustainable funding of cutting-edge science to build the groundwork for understanding of PANDAS and other childhood post-infectious neuroimmune disorders.  Funding will be targeted to rapidly develop diagnostic tools and effective treatments, while disseminating information worldwide.  Our model is the success achieved generations ago with Sydenham’s Chorea, a related condition with primarily motor symptoms caused by streptococcal infection that is more readily diagnosed and is now quite rare in developed countries.  By supporting key strategic medical research initiatives, MMF aims to change the trajectory for children with devastating post-infectious neuroimmune disorders, including PANS and PANDAS.