What began as one aunt’s mission to support her baby niece has grown into a community-wide effort to help children battling a rare and serious heart condition. The #HadleighStrong Fundraiser will take place on Saturday, May 3, from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on the historic square in downtown Clinton—offering a day full of family fun, fellowship, and faith, all for a meaningful cause.

Five-month-old Hadleigh was born with Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome (HLHS), a congenital condition in which the left side of the heart is critically underdeveloped. Children with HLHS often require multiple open-heart surgeries within their first few years of life, and in some cases, even a heart transplant. For Hadleigh, those surgeries have already come with complications—including a paralyzed vocal cord, feeding difficulties requiring a feeding tube, and additional procedures, including lung surgery.

Inspired by Hadleigh’s resilience and the toll the condition has taken on her family, local resident Taylor Owens launched the fundraiser with a heart full of purpose. “At first, this was just for Hadleigh,” Owens said. “But I gave the whole thing to God and asked Him to take the lead. He turned this into something so much bigger.”

The event will feature a bounce house, dunk tank with local celebrities, a DJ, food trucks, and live Christian music performances from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. Vendors will be on site selling a variety of items, and raffles will offer chances to win gift cards and handmade goods donated by local artisans and businesses. All proceeds will go toward supporting families facing the immense emotional and financial burdens that come with HLHS—whether it’s covering gas money for hospital visits, diapers that meet specific medical needs, meals, or lodging.

In addition to enjoying the festivities, the community is invited to be part of the blessing:

Donations of raffle items or gift cards are welcome.
Vendor spots are still available.
Volunteers are needed for face painting, hair braiding, and other kid-friendly activities.
“This day is about bringing people together to glorify God and to help children and families who are going through something incredibly hard,” said Wilkes. “It’s all for His glory and for the babies who need our support.”

For more information, to donate, or to get involved, contact Taylor Owens at (864) 200-5764.