LAPORTE, Ind.-A Michiana native is using her passion to help children who need it most. Jamie Johnston found a unique way to raise money for kids who are fighting a life-threatening illness.

Johnston grew up in LaPorte and now lives in Hernando, Mississippi.

“I’m a photographer and I do a lot of weddings, maternity and couples,” Johnston said.

She runs the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital half marathon in Memphis every year.

“I try to raise as much as I can, so I decided I would do sessions for St. Jude and they would just pay their fee directly to St. Jude,” Johnston said. “They’re getting great pictures, but they’re also donating to a great cause,” Johnston said.

Her total amount raised right now since she started last year is close to $4,000. 

“We have several people in our hometown, little kids, that are patients there and it breaks my heart to see them go through the things they have to go through,” Johnston said.

Jamie’s daughter is charitable, just like her mom. She’s set up a couple of lemonade stands to benefit St. Jude, raising $600 so far.

“I just want everyone to be aware that this is such a great cause and they’re really helping the kids when they do that,” Johnston said.

To learn more about Jamie, click HERE. You can also find her donation page HERE.