During our 20-week anatomy scan, we learned that Elijah would be born with a rare and life threatening congenital heart defect- Tricuspid Atresia / Hypoplastic Right Heart Syndrome.  In an instant, the vision we had for our pregnancy, and our future, shifted. The months that followed were a whirlwind of long drives to Lurie Children’s Hospital, fetal echos, weekly stress tests, and heavy conversations with the cardiology team. It was a season of endless research, many prayers, and a fair share of tears and fears.

A Different Kind of Beginning

Elijah’s first few months were anything but "typical." After he was born, we spent 17 days in the Cardiac Care Unit (CCU). We lived in a state of constant uncertainty; one day we were told he would need surgery, the next day he didn't, and the day after that, the plan changed again.

We eventually went home without surgery, but still needed to monitor him very closely. Our days were dictated by data: tracking daily weights, oxygen saturations, heart rates, and exact feeding ounces. Between weekly check-ins and a schedule full of Physical, Occupational, and Nutrition therapy, our "normal" was a marathon of medical monitoring.

The Turning Point

Shortly before Elijah turned three months old, we noticed his oxygen levels began to drop below his baseline. What was supposed to be a diagnostic catheterization on August 11th turned into a life-altering moment: the doctors told us we weren't leaving. Elijah needed his first open-heart surgery—the bidirectional  Glenn—sooner than anyone had anticipated.

August 15th became the second day our lives changed forever. There is truly nothing that can prepare a parent for the moment your child goes into surgery knowing they will be gone for 8-10 hours. But that day, Elijah showed us exactly who he is: a warrior.

Thriving and Moving Forward

Since his surgery, Elijah has been absolutely thriving! He is making incredible strides in PT and OT, and he was recently discharged from nutrition therapy. Watching him hit his milestones fills us with a pride we can’t put into words.

While we know we still have a long journey ahead—as CHD is a lifelong battle—we are walking to celebrate how far Elijah has come and to support the future of all heart heroes. Thank you for being part of Elijah’s village!

This year, I'm walking with extra purpose as The Children's Heart Foundation celebrates 30 incredible years of funding research that saves lives and changes futures. My commitment to making a difference has led me to participate in the Congenital Heart Walk, an event that carries immense significance for me—especially knowing that for three decades, CHF has been the leading force behind the treatments and surgical advances that help children with congenital heart defects thrive.

It's not just a walk; it's a stride toward the next 30 years of hope. This endeavor is all about supporting The Children's Heart Foundation's crucial mission—advancing the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of congenital heart defects through groundbreaking research that improves survival rates, reduces complications, and helps Heart Warriors celebrate more birthdays than ever before.

I warmly invite you to become a part of this milestone journey by supporting my fundraising efforts. Together, we can raise the funds essential to continue the life-saving research that turns heartbreak into hope. Your contribution holds immeasurable value to me and to every family who needs CHF's support.

Thank you for your generosity, and for standing beside me in this mission. Your support means the world.