A seven-year-old from Howland is has been named the American Heart Association's "Heart Child" since 2016.

Preston Helmick is the son of Farmers National Bank President and CEO Kevin J. Helmick and his wife Amie. 

Preston was born with a serious heart defect and has spent several years receiving treatment.  Through continued advancements, he is doing well and is a happy boy now.

According to a press release, as part of his special brand of health advocacy, Preston created a colorful graphic design featuring his renditions of beloved superheroes Batman, Superman, Green Lantern, Wonder Woman and Iron Man. 

Those heroes, along with Preston's hand-prints, were all formed into the shape of a heart. 

The print caught someone's eye at the Heart Association's Heart Ball and it was purchased for a record-breaking donation.  

Preston's creation was the best-selling design nationally the American Heart Association had that year.

The press release continues to say that Preston entered his work of art in the 7th annual Miracles for Munchkins contest at Dunkin Donuts this summer and won.

The "Hero Heart" is now on Dunkin Donuts mugs all over the Mahoning Valley. 

From now until October 31, you can buy this mug for $5 at local Dunkin Donuts locations, with the proceeds going to Akron Children's Hospital. Once purchased, you can get it refilled for only $.99.

"My son has been so fortunate to have advanced care for his condition.  Preston has a desire to help other children with heart disease and I could not possibly be more proud to be his father," said Farmers' Kevin J. Helmick. "Now I hope every coffee-lover in our Valley will buy this great mug and send some much-needed funding to Akron Children's Hospital. They do great work and every dollar is appreciated."