A Mother’s Fight for Her Son’s Heart

This is Willow.

He just turned 2 years old on May 19—a milestone many parents take for granted. For Malinda, it was a celebration of a miracle. Because for the past two years, almost every single breath her son has taken has been a fight for survival.

Born with serious heart defect, Willow has already endured open heart surgery, countless complications, and more than half his life in a hospital room. He has hovered at death’s door more times than his mother could ever prepare for. And yet—he’s still here.

This little warrior lives.
He smiles. He reaches for his mama.
He holds onto hope the only way a two-year-old can—by waking up each day and trusting that the world is still worth fighting for.

Malinda has been by his side for every second. She hasn’t been able to work—because her job, her purpose, her every waking moment, has been caring for Willow. She’s learned medical terms no mother should have to know. She’s slept upright in chairs. She’s held his hand through the darkest nights. She is his anchor, his advocate, and his greatest source of love.

And now, they face their biggest challenge yet.

Willow’s heart is failing again. The only option left is a heart transplant. It’s uncertain. It’s high-risk. It may not even be possible. But they are holding on. Because that’s what they do.

Now, they need us.

Malinda has poured every ounce of herself into saving her son’s life. We can help carry some of that weight. Your donation—no matter the size—goes toward medical bills, travel expenses, housing, and daily living costs that pile up when a mother is forced to choose between a paycheck and her child’s heartbeat.

More than anything, your support says: You are not alone.

Please give if you can. Share if you will. And pray for Willow’s heart to keep beating.

Because love like this deserves a fighting chance. Because Willow deserves many more birthdays.