Colby’s Story

Colby was born in April 2024 with a congenital heart defect called Transposition of the Great Arteries (TGA). This condition occurs when the aorta and pulmonary artery—the heart’s main blood vessels—are switched. It wasn’t detected during pregnancy, so we were completely unprepared for what awaited us when Colby was born.

He entered the world blue and struggling to breathe. Within minutes, he was intubated, and just a few hours later he was transported by ambulance from College Station to Texas Children’s Hospital in Houston. There, doctors performed a lifesaving procedure called a Balloon Atrial Septostomy to help his heart function until he was ready for surgery.

At only four days old, Colby underwent a 12-hour open-heart surgery known as the Arterial Switch Operation. It was the longest and hardest day of our lives. We were told to expect a 4–6 week hospital stay, but Colby amazed us all. After just 18 days, we were able to bring our little fighter home.

Now, Colby is 16 months old—happy, energetic, and full of personality. He keeps us on our toes and fills our days with joy. Watching him grow into such a strong and joyful boy reminds us every day of the miracle he truly is.

This year, we are especially excited for the Heart Walk because Colby will be walking alongside us. To see him take those steps is something we once only dreamed about, and we can’t wait to celebrate how far he’s come.

We are proud to share Colby’s story to raise awareness for congenital heart disease and to honor all heart warriors and their families. ❤️