One year ago, we started this GoFundMe for sweet Shiah, who came into this world already fighting so bravely. Born with a failing tricuspid valve, Shiah underwent open heart surgery at just 4 days old in Merced. Thanks to incredible medical care, unwavering love from his parents Jess and J, and so many prayers, he has had an amazing first year of life and recently celebrated his first birthday on Dec 23rd!

Because Shiah has been doing so well, he is now able to take an important next step forward in his heart journey. In late January, Shiah will undergo another open heart surgery to receive a Melody valve at Stanford. This surgery is a planned and hopeful milestone in his care and will support his long-term health and quality of life.

Shiah will be in the hospital for at least a week, and his recovery will require close monitoring and constant care at home. During this time, Jess and J will be away from home and out of work for a minimum of six weeks, all while continuing to care for Noah, Tu, and Ziggy. Their focus will be fully on supporting Shi through surgery and recovery and keeping their family steady during this intense season.

We are resharing this GoFundMe to help ease the financial burden that comes with extended time away from work, travel and lodging to be near him during surgery, as well as everyday living expenses during recovery. While this surgery represents progress and hope, it also brings real logistical and financial challenges for their family. We would love to ease their load and allow them to focus fully on Shi

If you are able to donate, share, or keep Shiah and his family in your thoughts and prayers, it would mean so much. Every bit of support helps this family focus on what matters most: helping Shiah continue to grow, heal, and be his cute self!!

Thank you for supporting and cheering on Willis Family along side us!!

original post *** On December 23rd, Jess and JJ welcomed their precious son, Shiah Mark, into the world via emergency cesarean. Soon after his birth, it became clear that his heart was struggling to keep up. He was swiftly transferred to Valley Children's Hospital in Madera, where doctors worked to stabilize him.

After a few days of observation, it was determined that Shiah would need open-heart surgery at just four days old. Thankfully, the surgery was a success, but his journey to recovery is uncertain and will likely be a long and challenging one.

As a community, let's unite to support this family of six during this tough time. There are many expenses ahead - travel costs, meals, lodging, and other unexpected needs that may arise, that could use our help. Every contribution, big or small, will make a difference as Jess and JJ focus on caring for their newborn son and Noah, Tullah, and Ziggy.

While financial support is incredibly valuable, one of the greatest gifts we can offer this family is our prayers. Praying for Shiah’s healing, strength for his parents, and peace for their family during this difficult time can make a profound difference as well. Let’s lift them up in prayer and surround them with love as they navigate this challenging journey.

Let’s show them the strength of our community and offer an outpouring of our love, support, and generosity.

Thank you!