Follow his story, progress, and recovery.
Thank you for your prayers, encouragement, and support during this season.
Lawrence J. Little
We all know Lawrence as a devoted husband who deeply loves his God, Jehovah, his family, and his brothers and sisters in the congregation. Throughout the years, he has generously given of himself through encouragement, meaningful Bible discussions, and sincere acts of kindness that have touched many lives.
Today, Lawrence is facing one of the greatest challenges of his life. He is courageously battling several serious health conditions, including congestive heart failure, pulmonary hypertension, and diabetes.
His journey began in Orlando, Florida, in 2015 with what seemed to be a routine doctor’s visit to renew a prescription for medication. At first, it was believed that worsening asthma attacks were causing his symptoms. However, after being referred to a cardiologist and undergoing a stress test, doctors discovered that he was actually suffering from congestive heart failure.
Over the years, his condition progressively worsened, leading to four heart attacks, the most recent occurring in May 2026. After being rejected twice by a heart transplant hospital in Tampa, Florida, Lawrence continued to persevere with faith and determination. Through Jehovah’s blessing and the loving efforts of the HLC (Hospital Liaison Committee), doors were opened for him to come to the University of Chicago Medicine, where he was finally approved and officially listed as a heart transplant candidate.
Lawrence is currently a Level 2 heart transplant candidate, prayerfully awaiting the gift of a new heart.
As we continue to support and pray for him, we eagerly look forward to the fulfillment of the comforting promise found at Isaiah 33:24: “And no resident will say: ‘I am sick.’”
Read about Dr. Jeevanandam, the surgeon who will be performing Lawrence's heart transplant at UChicago Medicine.
Please pray along with us. Every prayer, share, and contribution truly makes a difference.
Procedure Tracking
💠 LATEST UPDATE - JULY 2, 2026
- Heart Transplant successful on 6/13/2026!!!
7.2.2026 - Lawrence created a new video to wish Melanie a happy anniversary!
6.27.26 - Moved from ICU to the rehab unit to receive physical therapy until he regains physical strength. Continuing dialysis, and kidneys are showing signs of recovery.
6.18.26 - Experienced some confusion due to a few "mini-strokes" (likely TIAs or small embolic strokes). The great news is that his imaging shows no permanent damage or brain scarring. Currently stable.
Check out Lawrence's YouTube channel for historical updates.
Note & Experience from Mel
One of the things I’ve come to appreciate so much is that as Jehovah’s Witnesses, we’re more than just a worldwide organization—we’re truly a family. Even when we’ve never met before, we immediately feel connected. We carry one another’s burdens, celebrate each other’s victories, and grieve together when one of us hurts.
Being here at Chicago Medicine has made that even more real to me. When one of our brothers or sisters comes here for a heart transplant, there’s such a feeling of hope and anticipation. Complete strangers become dear friends as we encourage one another and wait together for good news.
A couple of weeks ago, I met a sweet sister and her husband who had come here for his heart transplant. Almost every day, I would see him faithfully walking the halls with his nurse. We had the chance to talk, and after he was moved just a couple of doors down from Lawrence’s room, I also spent some time visiting with him and his family.
Just 48 hours ago, he received his new heart. We were all so happy and hopeful for them.
Today, my heart is so heavy because I learned that he passed away.
I can’t stop thinking about his dear wife and their family. Even though I only knew them for a short time, that’s what being part of Jehovah’s family does—it makes someone else’s pain feel personal.
Please keep this dear family in your prayers. I know Jehovah is close to those who are brokenhearted, and I pray that He gives them the comfort, strength, and peace they need in the difficult days ahead.
Gallery
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How You Can Help
Giving Options:
CashApp: $thelittlefamily
Venmo: @Littlemel06
Zelle: 321-400-7078
Or use our GoFundMe Link:
Many have asked how they can help. Your generous donations will be used for the following:
Insurance until deductibles are met
Travel for treatments
Life-saving medications
Living expenses in Chicago for 1 year post-transplant
Ongoing recovery support
You will see Melanie Little's name on all of these accounts. Please include “Heart Support” in the note so we can track and acknowledge your gift.
How You Can Help
Giving Options:
CashApp: $thelittlefamily
Venmo: @xxx
Zelle: 321-400-7078 (Name: Melanie Little)
Milestone Goal: $11K
Total Goal: $20K (for medication and living expenses in Chicago)
Please include “Heart Support” in the note so we can track and acknowledge your gift.
Other Ways to Help
Not everyone is in a position to give financially, and we truly understand. You can still make a huge impact by:
Sharing this page with your network
Sending encouraging messages
Keeping Lawrence in your prayers
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Thank You!
We are deeply grateful for every act of kindness, every prayer, and every contribution. It’s in times like these that we’re reminded how powerful our community truly is.
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We will continue to keep this page updated as Lawrence progresses through surgery and recovery.
With love and appreciation,
The Family
Need a page like this? Email trina@doubletprojects.com.
