A Gift for Our Fighters

We call our heart kiddos fighters, warriors, heroes, HLHS butt-kickers...because they are the strongest, bravest, most-determined people we know. From the moment they are born, they begin fighting a battle that we ourselves, as adults, would find nearly impossible to face. For us, their battle begins the day we receive the devastating diagnosis. We become strong for them and continue to fight with hope in our hearts for their future.

Our kids are inspiring and continue to amaze us every single day. Our lives are forever changed by their heart journeys.  We see the world differently and appreciate every single minute we have with them.  We love to share their stories because we are SO proud of them for everything they have endured in their first few months and years of life. Their half hearts make our families whole and we love them unconditionally.

I (Stacie Jackley) recently had the opportunity to honor my little figher, Kellen, with a song written and fully produced for him appropriately titled "Half a Heart." My cousin, Tyler, is a multi-talented musician & professional recording artist and a member of Gym Class Heroes since 2005.  He plays the keyboard, guitar, does backup vocals and wrote many of their songs - an incredibly talented kid.

Tyler is the second from the left

When I first heard this song, I sat there stunned with tears streaming down my face. It's not just about Kellen, it's about all of our HLHSers.  Their fight, the pain, the hope...  In listening to the lyrics, you would think Tyler is the father of a heart child. It's so beautifully written and heartfelt. I wanted to share this song with all of you, as a gift for your HLHSers. I truly hope you enjoy it as much as I do.

Thank you Tyler for sharing your talents with us and giving Kellen and his friends such a priceless gift that we can cherish forever! You are amazing.

Want a chance to have your own personalized song for your HLHSer?  Enter our 2nd Annual SBH Costume contest! We will be accepting entries until 11/4.  The album will be posted on 11/5 and the voting will begin!  The Halloween cutie with the most "likes" will win their own song written and produced by Tyler!  How cool is that?!