Bride and Groom: No Presents, Please—Donate to Jameson's Army Instead

When Danielle McKain and her family attended long-time friend Courtney Mazza’s bridal shower this fall in preparation for her Dec. 1 nuptials to Mario Lopez, she and her Cecil family were surprised with bride-to-be’s announcement: that, in lieu of wedding gifts, she would like donations to be made to Jameson’s Army.

Jameson’s Army is a non–profit organization that was started by Danielle and Patrik McKain, and whose mission is raising awareness and funding for children.

and families affected by congenital heart disorders and those who support them.

The Army was inspired by the McKain’s 2-year-old son—Jameson—

Jameson has survived six open-heart surgeries and a underwent a successful heart transplant. While Jameson is now thriving, his family said the long amount of time spent living in Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh showed them all of the ways that they could help others in their situation.

Jameson’s Army now does regular drop offs to Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh and The Children’s Home providing gifts, food and appliances for the children and families who are staying there. The nonprofit recently were able to provide therapeutic cough heart pillows, which help in feeding and breathing for babies with heart issues.

“One in 100 babies are born with some type of heart disorder and though many go on to live healthy normal lives, many do not. We want to help spread awareness and education concerning CHD and help these children to grow and live the lives they deserve,” Danielle McKain said. “The Lopez’s generous gift to Jameson’s Army is going to allow us to help so many more people. I can’t wait to show my gratitude to them by what we accomplish now!”

Editor’s Note: To find out more about Jameson’s Army visit www.Jamesonsarmy.org or email Daniellemckain@jamesonsarmy.org. The group can also be found on Facebook here.