Hearts of Joy International is a non profit that provides life saving heart surgeries to children with Down syndrome around the world.

In gratitude for 40 years of life, I wanted to do something special to celebrate by giving the gift of life to a baby in need.

Most people don't know, but my birth was one that could have had a completely different outcome. I was born in fetal distress, with the cord wrapped three times around my neck which causes alot of panic in the delivery room. It was the feast of Our Lady of Sorrows, and for probably the better half of my life I lamented the fact that I was born on such a sad feast day! Its taken all these years, alot of contemplation and witness to many miraculous situations to realize the joy of Our Lady of Sorrows and the utter and undeniable gift of my birthday.

Who are any of us?

Who are we other than what He chose us to be, and that He CHOSE to need each of us.

All I want is to pour back the next 40 years in total thanksgiving and joy that God chose to need me, and in turn, support other lives He chose to need, but who also need our help to live their fullest lives!

Hearts of Joy International loves and cares for the forgotten, unwanted and vulnerable by affirming their worth as image bearers of God and restoring dignity through holistic family centered care. The beautiful part of donating to Hearts of Joy International is you will receive updates to follow the healing journey of the baby whose surgery we are providing! You will get updates and photos on surgery day and post operation! It is really an unbelievable experience to know that you are part of saving someones' life!

My hope is to raise $5,000 for the organization to help cover the cost of a heart surgery for a child in the Philippines this December. I hope so much that you'll consider donating $40 or more in celebration of my 40th birthday and helping me reach my goal!

The gift of life is the best gift of all!! Thank you !!

-- Annemarie Thimons

Annemarie's 40th Birthday

By Hearts of Joy International

Annemarie's 40th Birthday

Donate to Hearts of Joy in lieu of birthday gifts this year and help provide life saving heart surgery for children with Down syndrome around the world.

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