Lillian, a baby hero

My brave and beautiful friend Elyse Mazzola gave birth to a precious baby girl, Lillian Brier Mazzola, on August 28, 2019. Due to complications, little Lillian was born without the ability to breathe on her own and tragically survived only four days.


Through their grief and heartache, Elyse and her husband Jay were able to see that in their loss was the ability to help another. They  chose to give the ultimate gift of life by donating Lillian's organs. Their selflessness gave another baby the chance at life as a heart recipient was located. Elyse and Jay, although heartbroken at their loss, are grateful that Lillian's heart continues to beat through the life and love of another child. I have been so in awe of the love they showed Lillian during her brief time on this earth, the love they have shown each other, and the love they have shown to a baby and family unknown to them. They and baby Lillian are my heroes - turning their tragedy into someone else's miracle. Lillian's time here may have been short, but the mark she left on this world is great. She is the true definition of a super hero.


My hope is that through this fundraiser we can ease Elyse and Jay's burden however slightly. We cannot bring back their beautiful daughter, but to minimize their financial burden is something we can do. While certain costs are likely covered by the donor recipient, many will not be. Elyse required an emergency C-section. Lillian received an ALS transport and was thereafter hospitalized in the NICU for four days with around the clock care. There are also the costs related to the memorial service. We want nothing more than to ease this burden for Elyse and Jay. Please join us in doing what we can to support Elyse and Jay in this time of sadness and in supporting their selfless decision to turn their tragedy into life for another.