“We rise by lifting others.” —Robert Ingersoll

Kindness is always  a part of us, a part of our life and a part of our existence. We often realize it in various instances: Helping a blind lady cross the street, helping a puppy not get wet in the rain, donating stuff to care givers, listening to a colleague about their problems even when you yourself have had a bad day at work… Kindness is always there…

DJ Merriman, the namesake and the inspiration of the foundation, DJ’s hope 4 Hearts, was a true example of this… On the Saturday prior to his death, DJ noticed an elderly woman standing in the checkout line in front of him at a Giant Eagle store. The woman didn’t have enough money to pay for her groceries and in a typical generous gesture he provided the lacking funds. “That’s just the way he was,” Merriman said.

After his death, friends sold wrist bands and T-shirts and collected donations to pay for the funeral. Leftover funds were donated to churches and hospitals. Inspired by the selfless act, Merriman said “We’re going to keep it going. It helped us get through the whole thing, if anything really does.

And DJ’s hope for hearts have started their journey, of kindness, of hope, of never giving up. Be a part of this candle against the dark:  Select DJ’s hope 4 Hearts at Amazon Smile and shop… Your shopping might help save a heart beat!!!