Hailey

Our incredible journey began when my daughter was born on March 1, 2022, diagnosed with tricuspid atresia. She was immediately transferred to the NICU at Norton Children’s Hospital in Louisville, KY. At just three weeks old, she underwent her first open-heart surgery, which was successful, and she returned home after two weeks, full of hope.

However, our joy was short-lived as she had to come back due with a clotted shunt. Her oxygen levels dropped dangerously low during the transfer to the hospital, and the medical team quickly identified the issue. Emergency measures were taken in the Cath Lab, but despite the initial fix, she faced multiple shunt clotting episodes, which led her to require ECMO life support. These were some of the hardest times, filled with worry and uncertainty.

Afterward, she was scheduled for the Glenn procedure, which provided some relief, but during recovery, we discovered her mitral valve was leaking. Attempts to repair it during the procedure unfortunately only worsened the situation. Soon after, she was placed on the transplant list, and we held our breath as we waited for a second chance for her.

Five long months later, on February 13, 2023, we received the life-changing call: a heart was available. She underwent her transplant and spent a month and a half recovering in the hospital. Finally, six days before her first birthday, she came home, a moment of pure joy and relief for our family.

Today, she is a vibrant and thriving toddler, full of energy and learning to navigate the world with independence. Every day, we are grateful for her health and the amazing progress she has made. We know that without that transplant, her story could have ended much differently.

We have profound gratitude for the family who made the generous decision to share their child’s heart during their darkest time, allowing my daughter to continue her journey. Inspired by our experience, our family has committed to becoming organ donors, sharing our story to raise awareness about the importance of organ donation.

Her journey reminds us that hope exists even in the toughest moments, and we continue to celebrate every milestone with immense gratitude and love.