In France, she continued her interest in nursing, and was decorated for her contributions during World War I. Madeleine Ives Goddard was born in Providence, Rhode Island on July 1, 1874.

[3] Although she was "one of the richest of the American heiresses", she was "not fond of society or social functions";[9] instead, she studied violin, enjoyed sports, and trained as a nurse.

Her wealthy contacts in the United States helped to raise funds, especially the organization's American president, writer Gertrude Atherton.

[17][18] René was the son of General the Marquis d'Andigné, a cavalry commander in the Franco-Prussian War who became one of the political leaders of France.

"[21][22] The Marquise d'Andigné Fund continues into the 21st century, supporting people with Alzheimer's disease, cancer, and other diagnoses in Rhode Island.