The Clark Family

Meet John, an incredibly brave and optimistic 8-year-old boy who is fighting a battle that no child should ever have to face.

Prior to November 2023, John was a healthy, active boy. A routine dental procedure caused bacteria to travel to John’s heart. After a few days of worsening illness, John was life flighted to Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh where he underwent lifesaving open heart surgery. During surgery John suffered a massive stroke. He never fully recovered from the heart surgery and in December 2023, John went into cardiac arrest, and during life saving measures, John’s heart was damaged beyond repair. For 20 long days, John was in a medically induced paralysis. Not knowing how John would or if he would wake up, his family prayed and prayed for the best possible outcome.

Their prayers were heard, and John woke up.

Due to the cardiac arrest John’s body shut down certain functions to protect his brain and this resulted in the amputation of his left leg. His rehabilitation has been long and complicated. Despite facing countless medical procedures and complications, John has remained full of spirit and hope. When asked about how he felt about losing his leg and needing a heart, he simply replied “normal.”

Doctors have determined that he urgently needs a heart transplant to survive. As John waits for a new heart, his family is facing mounting medical bills, travel expenses for consultations with specialists, and the emotional toll of watching their beloved son endure so much pain.

Despite the challenges he faces, John continues to amaze everyone with his infectious smile and unwavering determination. He dreams of being able to run and play like other kids his age, and a new heart and prosthesis would give him the chance to live a full and healthy life. But the road is long and will not always be easy. The average lifespan of a recipient heart is not infinite, so John will likely need multiple transplant surgeries in the future.

To know the Clark’s is to love them. The whole family radiates positivity and goodness. Their kids are courageous and kind. I know through determination and prayer John will make a full recovery.

But his family can't do this alone. They need our help to cover the overwhelming costs associated with his medical care, the transplant procedure, and prosthetics. Every dollar donated will go directly towards supporting John's medical expenses, ensuring that he receives the treatments he desperately needs.

Your generosity and support will not only give John a second chance at life but will also provide hope and comfort to his family during this difficult time. Together, we can make a difference in John’s life and help him beat the odds.

Please consider donating to John’s fundraising campaign today and sharing his story with your friends and family. With your help, we can give this courageous young boy the gift of a new heart and a brighter future ahead. Thank you for your kindness and compassion.

https://www.cbsnews.com/pittsburgh/news/damar-hamlin-visits-families-at-upmc-childrens-hospital-in-pittsburgh/