Lakewish is more than just a brand—it's a personal journey. When I started Lakewish, I knew I wanted to combine my passion for lake life in northern Wisconsin with my desire to contribute to impactful organizations. This work is all about connection with those we love most.
At Lakewish, a portion of our proceeds goes straight to organizations that aim to support research and funding to improve the lives of those living with Congenital Heart Disease/Defects (CHDs). CHDs are the most common birth defects, affecting one in every 100 babies born. Personally, it was a diagnosis I never expected to hear when my son was born.
Here is my story with CHD and an important organization that holds a special place in our family’s hearts.
Cute Camping Apparel for a Cause: Our CHD Journey
After a picture-perfect pregnancy, our world changed during a routine non-stress test. My son’s heart rate fluctuated unexpectedly, and what began as a normal day turned into an urgent hospital visit and an emotional roller coaster.
When Braeden was born, he wasn’t crying, and his breathing seemed off. A room full of doctors rushed into action, and my heart sank as I realized something was wrong. Four agonizing hours later, we received the news: Braeden had been born with a rare congenital heart defect called Ebstein’s Anomaly. His tricuspid valve was not functioning properly, causing blood to flow incorrectly through his heart. Thankfully, his condition was stable, and immediate surgery wasn’t required, but it was the beginning of a lifelong journey.
Learning about congenital heart disease—something so common yet unfamiliar—was overwhelming. But I quickly learned that I wasn’t alone. Congenital heart disease is 60 times more prevalent than childhood cancer, and there are countless families, like ours, navigating these challenges.
Camping Gifts for Project Bubaloo
This is where Project Bubaloo comes in. This incredible Milwaukee-based non-profit is dedicated to spreading awareness and advancing care for those affected by CHD. Since its inception, Project Bubaloo has raised over $777,000 to fund research and improve treatment for CHD. Their mission is close to our hearts, as we embark on our own journey with Braeden. We are proud to support Project Bubaloo's efforts to ensure that no child’s life is limited by a congenital heart defect.
Speaking of hearts - make sure you SAVE THE DATE for Project Bubaloo’s Hops for Hearts event! $130,000 were raised in 2024 - let’s make 2025 even bigger!
Through initiatives like Project Bubaloo, families facing CHD can find hope, community, and critical resources. We are so grateful for their work and the ongoing support we receive on this road with Braeden.
A portion of Lakewish’s proceeds will be donated to non-profit organizations dedicated to CHD causes (and more). If you want to get involved or learn more about Project Bubaloo, please visit their website to discover ways to get involved.
So when you support Lakewish, know you’re supporting a small business committed to giving back. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of heart warriors everywhere!