ABOUT THE MORGAN MISSION
A STORY OF PURPOSE, STRENGTH, AND IMPACT
Learn more about the heart behind The Morgan Mission, our journey, and the work we are doing to support families affected by Loeys-Dietz Syndrome.
ABOUT US
WHAT WE STAND FOR AND WHY IT MATTERS
The Morgan Mission is dedicated to transforming the lives of those affected by Loeys-Dietz Syndrome through a commitment to awareness, support, and connection. We envision a world of better outcomes and deeper support for patients and their families and strive to empower those impacted by LDS while cultivating a compassionate community where no one navigates their journey alone. We work to achieve this goal through our 3 areas of focus:
RAISING AWARENESS
Increasing recognition and understanding of Loeys-Dietz Syndrome to support earlier diagnosis and improved outcomes.
DRIVING SUPPORT
Supporting research, programs, and families through meaningful initiatives and community-driven efforts.
BUILDING CONNECTION
Creating a compassionate space where families can find support, resources, and belonging.
OUR STORY
THE JOURNEY BEHIND THE MISSION
The Morgan Mission was founded in 2026 by Jen Hines after her daughter, Morgan, was diagnosed in July 2025 at the age of 19 months with Loeys-Dietz Syndrome following a lifelong journey with developmental concerns, physical differences, and a series of abnormal tests. In the wake of the diagnosis, Jen and her husband, Ryan, found themselves processing a sudden range of emotions. There was confusion, sadness, fear, and a constant weight of worry for their daughter’s future. Soon, though, those feelings were overpowered by an entirely different emotion: determination.
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​It was a determination to learn the intricacies of this rare condition, to understand the path forward, and to empower their family with knowledge-all while remaining steadfast in the mission to safeguard a happy, typical childhood for not only Morgan but also for her brother, Jackson, where potential is never overshadowed by precautions ensuring that the bonds of family and the simple joys of being a kid remain the strongest threads in their story. Jen and Ryan became driven by the goal of supporting Morgan on her unique journey, ensuring she has every opportunity to live a typical, full, and vibrant life.
That resolve quickly expanded beyond their own front door. They became committed to a larger vision: helping to create a world where no life is lost due to undiagnosed or untreated aortic conditions. They recognized that through advocacy, education, and support, they could turn their personal experience into a movement that reaches far beyond their own family, creating a safer and more connected future for every individual living with Loeys-Dietz.
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Through this unwavering determination, The Morgan Mission was born. Today, we work to honor Morgan’s strength by raising awareness, driving support, and building connections for families navigating the challenges of Loeys-Dietz Syndrome.
PROACTIVE MANAGEMENT
ABOUT LDS
Loeys-Dietz Syndrome (LDS) is a rare genetic disorder that affects the connective tissue in the body. LDS primarily causes arterial aneurysms and tortuosity, leading to a high risk of aortic dissection or rupture. People living with LDS are at risk for life-threatening blood vessel aneurysms, particularly at the root of the aorta, but also in other locations of the arterial tree.
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There is no cure for Loeys-Dietz Syndrome.
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Living with LDS focuses on proactive management and lifelong monitoring.
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For more information about Loeys-Dietz Syndrome, please visit The Loeys-Dietz Syndrome Foundation
LEADERSHIP
MEET THE LEADERSHIP TEAM
Jen Hines
Founder, President, Board Member, Morgan’s Mom​​
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Jen started The Morgan Mission after her youngest child, Morgan, was diagnosed with Loeys-Dietz Syndrome. Jen’s passion to support Morgan live a full and healthy life has driven the work towards her vision of a world with better outcomes and deeper support for LDS patients and their families.
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Following her graduation from Bridgewater State with a Bachelor of Science degree in elementary education, Jen obtained a Master’s Degree in Elementary Education from American International College and a Certificate of Advanced Graduate Studies (CAGS) in Reading from the University of New England. Jen has spent her entire professional career in education, working first as a classroom teacher for 17 years before transitioning to a role in administration. As an avid supporter of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and a committee member for the TomorrowNite Gala, Jen’s experience with advocacy and support of nonprofit organizations precedes the creation of The Morgan Mission.​
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Jen lives in Bellingham, MA with her husband, Ryan, and their two incredible children, Jackson and Morgan.​​​​
Beth Newton
Treasurer, Board Member​​​​
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Beth Newton is a second-grade teacher in the Hopkinton Public Schools, where she first met Morgan’s mom, Jen. Teaching is actually Beth’s second career, and her journey to the classroom reflects her passion for lifelong learning and helping others.​
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Beth earned her Associate Degree in Dance from Dean Junior College in 1990 and went on to own and direct A Dancer’s World in Sharon, Massachusetts, for 15 years. After selling the business, she returned to school to pursue her dream of becoming a teacher. While working as a substitute teacher in the Medway Public Schools, she earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education from Western Governors University.​
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Beth joined the Hopkinton Public Schools as a second-grade teacher and has since continued to grow professionally. In 2018, she earned her Master’s Degree from American International College. She loves her job and treasures the relationships she builds with students and families. In addition to teaching, Beth serves as a Curriculum Team Leader, teacher mentor, and member of the school’s Social Committee.​
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Outside of the classroom, Beth works as the Billing Manager for Studio B Dance Center in Bellingham, Massachusetts. She has been with the studio since it opened in 2015. While her primary responsibilities involve billing, she also assists with scheduling, event planning, backstage management, and many other behind-the-scenes tasks. Her work at Studio B allows her to stay connected to her lifelong love of dance.​
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Beth lives in Medway, Massachusetts. She is widowed and has a wonderful daughter, Nicole, who lives in Boston. Beth is also the proud mom of their rescue dog, Harley. Beth is honored and excited to be part of The Morgan Mission and to support its meaningful work.
Samantha Stanley
Secretary, Board Member​
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For the past 15 years, Samantha has dedicated her career to supporting children and families in educational settings. Sam spent 10 years as a teacher in a toddler classroom at The Learning Center (TLC), where she had the privilege of helping young children learn, grow, and develop during some of their most important formative years.
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For the last 5 years, Sam has worked at Elmwood Elementary School where she started her career as a paraprofessional. Currently, Sam is the Secretary to the Principal, continuing her commitment to creating a positive and supportive environment for students, staff, and families.
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A particularly meaningful experience in Sam’s life was meeting a child named Morgan. Morgan inspired a deeper appreciation for the unique challenges faced by children and families affected by rare medical conditions and strengthened Sam’s desire to make a difference in the lives of others.
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As a supporter of The Morgan Mission, Sam is committed to helping raise awareness, provide support, and create opportunities for children and families in need. She is honored to contribute to a mission that reflects those values.​​​​​​​
Jennifer Johnson
Community Engagement Advisor​
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Jenn Johnson has been a teacher for the past 18 years at the South Shore Charter Public School (SSCPS) in Norwell, Massachusetts. For 11 years she was a 5th and 6th grade English teacher and for four years, she was a 7th grade English teacher. After spending so many years teaching English, Jenn decided to follow her true passion and transition into Special Education. For the past three years, she has served as a Special Education Teacher for 5th grade students.
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Jenn is passionate about making a meaningful difference in the lives of others. Being a Special Education teacher gives her the opportunity to support and empower children with diverse learning needs, helping them reach their fullest potential.
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Jenn attended Bridgewater State University (formerly ‘College’) where she earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Special Education where she met Jen Hines, and they have been close friends ever since. Jenn returned to Bridgewater State University to obtain her Masters Degree in Special Education.
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Jenn is honored to champion the work of The Morgan Mission by helping advance its mission and encouraging community support. She is grateful to be part of an organization whose mission aligns with her passion for making a positive impact in the lives of others.
Ally McDonald
Legal Advisor, Morgan’s Godmother​​
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Ally McDonald is an attorney and solo practitioner at Pereira Law, PC in Fall River, where she focuses on estate and asset protection planning, estate administration, and probate matters. Since beginning her legal career in 2014, she has been dedicated to helping individuals and families plan for the future and navigate complex legal matters with confidence and compassion.​
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She earned her Juris Doctor from Suffolk University Law School in 2014 and received her Bachelor of Science degree from Worcester State University in 2011.​
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Outside of her legal practice, Ally is a devoted wife and mother. She and her husband, BJ, are proud parents to their two children, Maya and Thomas, and enjoy spending time with their dog, Oakley.