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Here’s a Girl Who Found Her Perfect Match – A New Heart

When Maddie Grace was born, she had a hole in her heart. After enduring multiple surgeries and several heart attacks by four, the doctors told Maddie's parents that only a heart transplant could save her. In search of the best care for their daughter, Maddie's parents left Florida for St. Louis to find the perfect heart.

There wasn't any question as to whether Maddie's mom would stay in St. Louis to be by her daughter's side. Her father stayed in Florida to work, and he traveled to St. Louis on weekends.  The last thing on their mind was where they would stay. They checked into a hotel, but knew they couldn't afford to stay there long.

Then, Maddie's family found a welcoming home at the Ronald McDonald House in St. Louis, where they were comforted by the support of families who were dealing with the same situation.  Maddie quickly became friends with the other children in the House.

They woke at 4:30 every morning, waiting for the call that a heart had been found. They received 22 calls they had to turn down because the hearts weren't the perfect fit for such a high-risk case. Finally, the right call came.

Maddie's parents were terrified as their daughter was rushed to the hospital for her heart transplant. Fear quickly turned into happiness as they realized Maddie was going to have a chance at life - with a perfect matching heart.

A few years have passed and Maddie's new heart is beating strong. Maddie and her family have never forgotten the support they got at the House: "The House gave us the stability to save our child and to give her a chance at hope. We are thankful every day."

When her birthday comes each year, Maddie requests no presents. Instead, she asks for donations to be made to the Ronald McDonald House. In 2008, Maddie's eighth birthday raised $1,900 for the House. 

Maddie is also an avid collector of pop tabs and has enlisted neighbors, friends and her entire school in the effort. She is about to donate a huge bin of pop tabs to the Ronald McDonald House. The tabs are then sold to a recycler and the House uses the proceeds to help fund programming expenses.

Comments (2)|(Hide)

  • Jody Alvis (Peyton's Mommy)

    10/09/2012 11:45pm

    Maddie, you may not remember me but for a long time your heart held a very special piece of mine (it still does just not physically). It's been 6 yrs since the first time we met. Please know that I pray for and think of you and your parents often. you are an amazing young lady.

  • Rachel Baird

    18/11/2010 6:59pm

    Thats beautiful. Such an thoughtful little girl. God bless you and your parents forever.
    With His Love,
    Rachel

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