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Bakersfield, CA.   Born in Bakersfield, and descendant of Basques from Iparralde, the Basque-Californian, Nancy Mendiburu, is remembered by her sons as a woman with a huge heart that was always ready to help others.  When Nancy passed away in 2000, from ovarian cancer, her sons decided to continue her legacy by creating the Mendiburu Magic Foundation.

The entity has help those affected by cancer and other illnesses over the last 15 years, especially children, contributing to research as well as participating in different support programs in the Kern County community.

Two Brothers

John and Brian Mendiburu created the foundation at a very young age, 26 and 22 respectively, but in spite of that, they were able to launch a future-oriented project.  During the last few months of their mother’s illness they spoke to her about their plans for helping others suffering from cancer and other illnesses, as well as children.

“She knew what our goals were and she thought it was a wonderful idea.  She felt like it coincided with her ideals,” John said in an interview with The Northwest Voice.

Two Small Details

The foundation helps cancer patients and pays bills for treatments, especially those of children, those expenses that are always pending.  “Our mother always paid attention to the little things, she was always ready to help others.  Nobody is insignificant,” John said.  

The two brothers are very proud of their children, their very loving marriages and their great dedication to work.

Their farther, Juan Mendiburu, 69, was born and raised in Azpilcueta, Navarre, and came to the U.S. on March 20, 1955, at the age of 20. There he met Nancy, born in Bakersfield, who he was married to for 30 years.  The family was in the sheep business with the Juan Mendiburu Sheep Company.

Mendiburu Compassion Awards

On December 9, the Mendiburu Magic Foundation will present its Mendiburu Compassion Awards at the Wool Growers Basque Restaurant in Bakersfield, California.

More information is available on their website: www.mendiburumagic.org.