Nonprofit assists families of children waiting for lifesaving organ transplants

A local nonprofit that raises awareness for pediatric organ donation is holding a fundraiser this week in Fort Mill.

The organization, Hayden's Hope, is named for Hayden Michael Nowkhah.

Days after he was born in 2011, a virus caused a fever which damaged the little boy's heart so badly, he was put on the heart transplant list.

Hayden underwent three surgeries before he suffered a stroke that severely damaged his brain.  Doctors said Hayden had a 1 percent chance of living anything near a normal life.

The stroke also meant Hayden would no longer be eligible for a transplant.  His family made the difficult decision that they didn't want him to suffer any longer.  He passed away at just 39 days old.

His family started 'Hayden's Hope' with the goal of helping other children in need of transplants.

There will be a fundraiser to benefit 'Hayden's Hope' on Wednesday January 24 from 5 to 10 p.m. at the Grapevine Wine Shop in Baxter Village in Fort Mill.

For more information about Hayden's Hope and to make a contribution, click here.

Cox Media Group