Hi, and welcome to Jesse’s fundraising page!

This fundraiser is incredibly important to our family, and we are forever grateful for the research that has improved both the diagnosis and prognosis of congenital heart disease in children.

For those who may not be familiar with Jesse’s story, here is a brief history of his journey:

Jesse’s heart condition went unnoticed until he was three weeks old. He passed all his newborn screenings at the hospital and his early doctor’s appointments without a diagnosis. At three weeks, we trusted our instincts and took Jesse to the pediatrician for what we thought would be a routine sick visit. The pediatrician, recognizing something was wrong, referred us to a cardiologist and urged us to be seen within days. Looking back, all the signs were there—Jesse was in heart failure.

In the days that followed, Jesse was diagnosed with a large ventricular septal defect (VSD) and a small atrial septal defect (ASD). We were initially told that surgery would be necessary, ideally when he was at least six months old. But life had different plans. Just two days after his diagnosis, Jesse contracted RSV. Three days later, he was hospitalized. He spent the next three weeks in the ICU, battling RSV while already in heart failure. His weight dropped below his birth weight, and he required a feeding tube. Ultimately, his heart was failing, and surgery could not wait.

Jesse underwent open-heart surgery just 28 days after being diagnosed. His VSD was 14mm—much larger than anyone had anticipated. We are endlessly grateful for the research and advancements in medical technology that made his surgery possible. Jesse was born at a time when treatment options allowed him not only to survive but to thrive. Although Jesse will be routinely seen by his cardiologist he will be able to live without limits. 

For those who know Jesse, you know he carries a permanent smile on his face. Jesse, we are so proud of you and that beautiful scar of yours—a testament to your strength and the love that continues to surround you.

We want to express our heartfelt thanks for taking a moment to visit Jesse's fundraising page.

Our commitment to making a difference has led me to participate in the Congenital Heart Walk, an event that carries immense significance for me. It's not just a walk; it's a stride toward changing lives. This endeavor is all about supporting The Children's Heart Foundation and their crucial mission - advancing the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of congenital heart defects through groundbreaking research.

We warmly invite you to become a part of this significant journey by supporting my fundraising efforts. Together, we can raise the funds essential to drive forward life-saving research. Your contribution holds immeasurable value to us.

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