Rockwall girl jumps to to the top in fundraising efforts, in memory of little sister

(Rockwall) Feb. 2, 2012 – Ella Turner of Rockwall amazed friends, family and an entire community by raising more than $5,700 last year for Jump Rope for Heart – setting the record as the No. 1 fundraising campaigner in Texas, and No. 10 in the entire nation. This year, the first-grader has jumped to No. 1 in the nation, having raised $10,613 to date for the American Heart Association, in memory of her little sister, Colby.

The final standings may change as results come in from participating school districts whose Jump Rope for Heart events are still underway.

Those wishing to donate may continue to do so, which will help Ella remain high in the national ranking, while raising awareness and funds to “mend sick hearts.”

A number of local businesses stepped in to help Ella raise money, either through direct donations or by collecting donations from customers, or both. Among those businesses are Yellow Jacket Barbershop, The Flower Box, My Computer Guy, Elite Print Management and The Life House.

“The Dallas Arboretum also donated 20 admission/parking passes to support Ella’s campaign,” Neil Turner, Ella’s father said. “Ella chose to donate these to kids leaving the hospital who have been dealing with heart issues. One of Colby’s doctors is helping distribute the passes. An anonymous donation in equal value to the passes was made to her Jump Rope for Heart fund, so these passes are helping kids with sick hearts two ways. One is by giving them a chance to enjoy a day the Arboretum and the other through the donation to Jump Rope for Heart.”