About the Mario v Chalmers Foundation

Mario Chalmers, a former KU basketball player, began his journey in the NBA with a passion for giving back. Inspired by the memory of Pauline Peterson, his best friend’s mother who battled breast cancer, Mario set up the Mario V Chalmers Foundation. This foundation played a crucial role in establishing a specialty shop at Lawrence Memorial Hospital, fulfilling Mario’s dream of helping cancer patients feel confident and cared for.

Mario’s Closet, which opened its doors in July 2011, serves as a sanctuary for those undergoing cancer treatment. It offers an array of affordable products including wigs, prosthetics, and post-surgical garments. Additionally, visitors can find healthy lifestyle items, hats, cards, journals, and more. The success of Mario’s Closet stems from the heartfelt connections it fosters; staffed by twelve dedicated volunteers, many of whom are cancer survivors themselves, the shop provides a supportive community for patients.

Generous financial contributions are vital, enabling the provision of exceptional services and experiences for patients and the surrounding community. 

To support this cause, donations can be made by visiting www.lmhendowment.org/donate. For those interested in volunteering, Lawrence Memorial Hospital Volunteer Services can be reached at 785.505.3141.