Who we are
Opal’s Workshop of Love was created from a place of deep love—the kind that doesn’t end, even when a life is far too short. I’m Natalie, Opal’s mom. And alongside me is Richard, Opal’s dad.
We were given the honor of being Opal’s parents for six beautiful, life-changing months.
Meet Opal
Our sweet Opal May was born on March 25, 2025.
From the very beginning, Opal showed us what true strength looks like. She was born with a complex congenital heart condition and later diagnosed with DiGeorge syndrome. Her journey included open-heart surgery, long hospital days, and moments that tested everything we thought we knew about love and resilience.
But Opal was more than her diagnosis.
She was soft bows, tiny fingers, and a presence that filled every room.
She was deeply loved, endlessly cherished, and surrounded by a family who would have done anything for her—because we did.
After a rare complication during her first open-heart surgery, Opal spent nine days on ECMO before gaining her angel wings at just six months old.
And in that moment, everything changed.
Why Opal’s Workshop of Love Exists
After losing Opal, we knew we couldn’t let her story end there.
Opal’s Workshop of Love was created to carry her love forward.
This space exists to:
• Support families navigating congenital heart disease
• Provide comfort to parents in the NICU and PICU
• Offer resources and connection for grieving families
• Create a place where angel babies are remembered and honored
• Spread awareness in a way that feels gentle, real, and parent-centered
We also give back through:
• Donating blankets and toys to children’s hospitals
• Creating parent care packages
• Supporting families during and after their child’s medical journey
Because we know what it feels like to sit in those hospital rooms.
And we know how much even the smallest acts of kindness can matter.
Mission Statement
Opal’s Workshop of Love Project exists to spread comfort, compassion, and hope to children and families facing medical challenges. Inspired by the life and legacy of Opal May, our mission is to support children’s hospitals and families through the donation of blankets, toys, essential supplies, and thoughtfully prepared parent care packages.
In honor of Opal, we are especially passionate about creating and donating meaningful comfort items—such as Opal’s “Cow of Courage,” bows (a symbol she was known and loved for), and other small accessories—to bring warmth, familiarity, and love to children during hospital stays.
We also serve our community through charitable programs such as diaper drives, baby supply distribution, and family support initiatives. In addition, we are deeply committed to raising awareness for congenital heart disease (CHD) and providing grief support and resources for families navigating the unimaginable loss of a child.
Our goal is not only to meet physical needs, but to offer emotional comfort and connection—to CHD families, NICU/PICU families, and bereaved parents who need to feel seen, supported, and never alone.
Through acts of kindness, advocacy, and community support, Opal’s Workshop of Love Project honors Opal’s legacy by bringing comfort, spreading awareness, and reminding families that even in the hardest moments, love is still present.
Donation Disclaimer
At this time, Opal’s Workshop of Love Project is not yet a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Therefore, donations are not currently tax-deductible.
We are actively working toward obtaining nonprofit status. In the meantime, we are still able to accept donations to support our mission of helping children and families facing medical challenges.
We are so grateful for your support and for helping us carry Opal’s love forward.
Contact us
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