Lexington Teen Launches Clothing Line to Fund Lupus on May 10th

While many teens dream of a vacation, a gaming system, or celebrity meet-and-greet, 17-year-old Jonathan from Lexington had something bigger in mind.

Diagnosed with lupus at age 12 — a chronic and often invisible illness that’s forced him to grow up fast — Jonathan’s wish through Make-A-Wish Central and Western North Carolina wasn’t for himself. It was a mission. He wished to launch his own clothing line not for fame or fashion, but to raise awareness for lupus and give back to others living with the disease.

And now, that dream is becoming a reality. On Saturday, May 10, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the local community will rally around Jonathan at Capital Chevrolet of Lexington during a celebration marking the official launch of El Mago, his original streetwear-inspired brand. 

The collection features t-shirts and

hoodies emblazoned with a custom logo Jonathan designed himself. All merchandise sold at the event and through his soon-to-launch website — will directly benefit the Lupus Foundation of America, supporting research and awareness initiatives during National Lupus Awareness Month.

“This isn’t about fashion — it’s about raising awareness for people who have been through the same thing I have,” said Jonathan. “Lupus has taken so much from me over the years: time with friends, time in school, and sometimes, even my strength. But it hasn’t taken my creativity. I wanted to use my wish to create awareness for others living with lupus, and for those who don’t even know what lupus is. If my story can help give someone else hope, that’s what makes this worth it.”

The May 10 event — presented by Make-A-Wish and Capital Automotive Group, with
support from Winston-Salem merchandise partner SE Logo who helped Jonathan build his website — will include:

• A Make-A-Wish tent showcasing and selling El Mago apparel
• Popcorn and pork rind food vendors, with an ice cream truck for families
• Balloons, music, raffles, and community festivities
• A special raffle featuring a Kendra Scott “wish mom” bracelet honoring Jonathan’s
mother, Maryzabel

“Jonathan is a hometown hero,” said Jason Burns, Director of Marketing and
Communications at Make-A-Wish Central and Western North Carolina. “He could’ve
wished for anything — but he chose to use his wish to create something that will outlast him. His heart, vision, and voice are extraordinary.”

“Capital Auto and Capital Chevrolet of Lexington is honored to host Jonathan and help grant his wish,” said Lindsey Michael Longo, Chief Strategy Officer with Capital Automotive. “This is a meaningful moment that reflects our organization’s deep commitment to giving back and making a lasting impact in the communities they serve.”