The Gift that Gives Back

As I mentioned yesterday, I'm super excited about the gift I purchased for my mom's birthday. Since I was able to give it to her at her birthday dinner last night, I can finally share it with all of you!

So to be honest, when I first saw this item, I knew I needed one for myself. I ordered one right away and am completely in love with it. Not only is it beautifully stunning, but it means oh-so-very much to me on a personal/emotional level. Now that I'm sure you're wondering what it is, let me show you:

This beautiful heart pendant was inspired by the all-too-short life of sweet little Mia Marrone:

Mia Grace Marrone was diagnosed in utero with Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome. Mia was born on April 29, 2010.

At 6 days old, Mia underwent her first of three open-heart surgery, the Norwood at the renowned Children's Hospital of Philadelphia.

On July 25, 2010, at 87 days old, Mia's battle with HLHS sadly came to an end.

Mia Grace Marrone is survived by her parents, Jennifer & Ray Marrone, her older brother Cole and her twin brother Madden.

The Mia Marrone Heart Foundation is raising money and awareness for congenital heart defects, specifically HLHS, by making this beautiful Mia Marrone HLHS Swarovski heart pendant available for purchase. ALL of the money used to purchase these beautiful charms goes directly to fund research and raise awareness for HLHS.

If you have a special heart child in your life -- son, daughter, grandson, granddaughter, niece, nephew, cousin, etc. -- this gorgeous pendant can serve as a beautiful tribute to your precious heart warrior. I know for me this purchase was completely for sentimental reasons: I feel honored to wear my son's special heart around my neck and love the opportunity to talk about what he's been through when others notice my lovely and unusual pendant. Please visit the Mia Marrone Heart Foundation Facebook page for an order form if you're interested in purchasing one of these pendants. UPDATE: They are now available in both pink AND blue pendants! Gorgeous!

I do believe my mom enjoyed her new pendant in honor of her grandson, and I know I cherish mine. And I will tell you that photos just don't do this beautiful heart justice. Here's another photo with the flash... those Swarovski crystals sure do sparkle!

Thank you to Jennifer Marrone and the Mia Marrone Heart Foundation for making these beautiful pendants available and for all you're doing to raise awareness and support CHD research!