In 2013, Francis' life was irrevocably altered by a catastrophic automobile accident that left him with a severe concussion, and soon after, the diagnosis of Epilepsy. For many, Epilepsy is an unyielding, lifelong condition that requires constant attention, medication, and vigilance. In those early weeks, Francis was confronted with the harsh reality of what it means to live under the unrelenting weight of this condition. The constant fatigue, anxiety, and physical exhaustion became overwhelming, transforming even the simplest tasks—like going to the grocery store—into monumental challenges. The struggle was made even harder by the debilitating side effects of the medications meant to control his seizures.

Chronic conditions like Epilepsy, Diabetes, Cancer, Asthma, and heart disease can be just as disabling as conditions that are more visibly apparent, such as blindness, hearing loss, or mobility impairment. These invisible struggles can drain a person’s energy, resilience, and sense of independence. In times like these, every ounce of support becomes not just helpful, but essential.

Deeply moved by his own journey, Francis founded the Manna Foundation in 2014 with a simple but powerful mission: to offer the kind of compassion, understanding, and assistance that he had desperately needed. Through the foundation, he sought to create a lifeline for those facing similar battles—offering them not only practical support, but also the empathy and encouragement that can make all the difference in times of hardship.