Charlie, the 3-year old son of John and Sarah McMicken, was diagnosed with Cardiomyopathy at birth. Charlie was admitted to the Cleveland Clinic on October 3, 2011 and remains hospitalized awaiting a life-saving heart transplant. On February 1, 2012, Charlie underwent surgery to implant an assist device called the Berlin Heart, which has successfully stabilized the function of his heart while he continues his wait.  

With the cost of these procedures projected to exceed $750,000, many transplant families are unable to shoulder the entire financial burden.  Volunteers have gathered around the country in an effort to raise in excess of $150,000 estimated to cover Charlie's transplant related medical expenses.

Fortunately for Charlie and his family, The Children’s Organ Transplant Association (www.cota.org), a national charity dedicated to organizing and guiding communities in raising funds for transplant-needy patients, has lent their helping hand.  From Ohio to Texas to Connecticut and Rhode Island, volunteers have already begun raising funds and providing support for Charlie.

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“Pray for Charlie”