Some St. Cloud police officers helped make sure a 6-year-old in need of a heart transplant had a memorable birthday party.

At birth, Angelise Maldonado was diagnosed with hypolplastic left heart syndrome, a severe congenital heart defect in which the left side of the heart is underdeveloped.

This year, Angelise was diagnosed with plastic bronchitis, a debilitating disease that can be life-threatening.

She has undergone four open heart surgeries .

Her family decided to celebrate her birthday early because her condition has worsened.

Angelise loves police officers and participated in the department’s Shop with a Cop event, during which an officer found out her family was going to give her an early birthday party.

Police helped put on a princess-themed party for Angelise.

“This is a very special day. This is a very special family and we wanted to do our part to give back,” said Sgt. Denise Roberts of the St. Cloud Police Department.

A fundraising campaign was set up with HelpHopeLive, a trusted nonprofit organization.

Donations for Angelise

Proceeds will help Angelise’s family pay for medical expenses and possible travel expenses if they eventually get a call to advise if a heart donor has been found.

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In this file photo from October 2024, Atlanta Braves outfielder Jorge Soler and teammates react after losing to the San Diego Padres 5-4 in San Diego. The Braves and Soler, who now plays for the Los Angeles Angels, face a lawsuit by a fan injured at a 2021 World Series game at Truist Park in Atlanta. (Jason Getz/AJC)

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