Do you know my story? So many do, I don't know who does anymore!
For those who don't know, when I just turned 1, my primary doctor looked at my parents at my well baby check and said the words that would change our lives - "I think I hear a murmur". After some testing, it was found that I essentially had a hole in my heart (AV Transitional Canal). I had my first open heart surgery shortly after my birthday! During that surgery, it was also found that I had a cleft mitral valve.
Because of the structure of my heart, the repair caused Sub-Aortic Stenosis. Due to this stenosis, I had 2 more surgeries at the age of 3 and 11 which also revealed I have a bicuspid aortic valve. I have yearly check-ins with my cardiologist which have been great since my last surgery!
This is the life of a Heart kiddo! Appointments do not stop just because you’ve had surgery. You are not ‘fixed’ but ‘repaired’ and many times it’s only repaired for now.
I have family members who also have their tickers under constant supervision. My Grandpa, Larry, my G-Pa, Chuck, and my Grandpa, Doug, all have had heart issues requiring surgeries. Currently, Chuck is an LVAD patient and has something to help pump his heart!!
My family and I have been walking and raising money for the American Heart Association to support research in all the ways that can help me, my family and those like us!! We have come so far – especially with those born with heart defects. We are living longer and more productive lives because of research supported by donors like you!
Have a heart and help me reach my goal today.