KENT COUNTY, Mich., — Olivia Harrison had a unique idea for how she wanted to celebrate her 5th birthday this weekend. Instead of asking for presents, the little girl decided to “pay it forward” to help kids in Africa have access to clean drinking water.
As part of the special celebration, a “water party” was held on Saturday. Guests were asked to donate money to help build water wells in Africa, while water was the only beverage served to party-goers.
Harrison, who has struggled with medical issues most of her short life, couldn’t think of a better gift.
She’s been diagnosed with a congenital heart defect and chronic kidney failure. Harrison underwent her first surgery at 3 months old. Five months later she survived a successful open heart surgery. She’s currently in the process of undergoing a kidney transplant this spring with her father Peter, being the donor.
More than $400 dollars was raised at the party, which will go to benefit the Samuel Omogo Foundation. SOF is a non-profit foundation that helps build water wells in Africa. SOF has already built 10 water wells within the last few years and plans on building ten more wells. The average cost of a well is $5.200.
For more information on the Samuel Omogo Foundation, click here.