When Farmingdale resident Gabrielle Elliot was just 8 years old, she decided to forgo birthday presents and raise money for The Barbara Bush Children’s Hospital  instead. Four years later, Elliott is back at it and chose to honor her big day by donating her birthday in support of BBCH through the My Miracle Birthday program, according to a news release from the The Barbara Bush Children’s Hospital & Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals.

Gabrielle Elliott Photo courtesy of the Barbara Bush Children’s Hospital & Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals

“[Gabrielle] wanted to do something for someone else because she didn’t need presents. She tossed around a couple ideas and found the children’s hospital,” said Elliott’s mother, Felicia, according to the release. “She decided she wanted to help the kids.”

Gabrielle celebrated her 12th birthday on April 15 by raising $680 in support of the children’s hospital.

According to the release, Gabrielle used the My Miracle Birthday website platform to collect donations. The website allows the birthday donor to personalize their fundraising page and share with friends and family via email or social media.

Every dollar that Elliott raises in support of the children being treated at BBCH will be doubled, thanks to matching gift commitments from Saco & Biddeford Savings Institution and P&C Insurance.

“Every dollar makes a difference, and we are happy to partner with BBCH and others to assist in making these wishes come true,” said Bob Quentin, president and CEO of Saco & Biddeford Savings, according to the release. “We hope our support encourages others to join in.”

Donations to The Barbara Bush Children’s Hospital through the My Miracle Birthday program enhance the care provided at Maine’s only children’s hospital through the purchase of pediatric medical equipment and by providing financial support for specialized programs, like Child Life.

Visit MMC.MyMiracleBirthday.org to learn how children, parents and community members can use their birthdays to help The Barbara Bush Children’s Hospital provide life-saving care for local kids.