Introducing El Mago: A Clothing Line with Heart, Created by a Teen on a Mission to Fight Lupus
- Jason Burns
- May 1
- 2 min read

When you meet 17-year-old Jonathan from Lexington, North Carolina, you might see a creative teen with a passion for design—but behind the logo, behind the fabric, is a fighter with a vision. Diagnosed with lupus at age 12, Jonathan has faced years of doctor visits, treatments, and unanswered questions. Yet instead of wishing for something for himself, Jonathan chose to use his one true wish to give back—to bring light, awareness, and hope to others walking a similar path.
And now, his wish is becoming a movement.
This May, during National Lupus Awareness Month, Jonathan is launching El Mago, a bold new clothing line built on purpose. His dream? To inspire, to empower, and to raise critical funds for lupus research. Every shirt and hoodie sold through El Mago will help fund efforts by the Lupus Foundation of America to find better treatments—and one day, a cure.
“Living with lupus is hard, but I’ve found strength in creating something meaningful,” Jonathan shares. “I named the brand El Mago because it means ‘The Magician’ in Spanish—and that’s what I want this line to be. A little magic for people like me. Something that turns pain into power and transforms awareness into action.”
From eye-catching logos to vibrant apparel, El Mago is about more than fashion—it’s about identity. It’s a statement that those fighting invisible illnesses deserve to be seen, heard, and supported. Jonathan’s online store will officially launch this May, with 100% of proceeds benefiting lupus research.
To celebrate, Make-A-Wish® Central and Western North Carolina and Capital Auto of Lexington are hosting a special launch event on Saturday, May 10 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the dealership. The event will feature:
A Make-A-Wish tent with El Mago merchandise for sale
Local food vendors, an ice cream truck, music, and raffles
A Kendra Scott “wish mom” bracelet giveaway honoring Jonathan’s mother, Maryzabel
Family-friendly fun and a powerful community gathering
This is more than a launch. It’s a call to action. A celebration of courage. And a chance for our community to rally behind one young man’s extraordinary effort to turn his illness into impact.
You can support the mission by visiting his new clothing site by clicking here.