Welcome to Team Watson, we are so glad that you are here!
Our son Watson was born July 29th 2020. On April 6th 2020 it was discovered during a routine ultrasound that Watson’s heart was severely underdeveloped. To say our world was flipped upside down in one moment, is an understatement. We were unsure what Watson’s future looked like, and had many ups and downs, but remained hopeful that he could be healthy and live a normal life. Watson has single ventricle heart disease, which is one of the most complex and most severe forms of Congenital Heart Disease. His diagnosis specifically is, Double Inlet Left Ventricle with ventricular inversion, Transposition of the great artistries and pulmonary stenosis. His condition within the single ventricles is incredibly rare. There is a series of palliative care surgeries for this. Watson underwent his first open heart surgery called the Glenn on January 25th 2021 at 6 months old. He went through his second open heart surgery, called the Fontan Operation, on August 19th, 2024. Seeing your child go through multiple heart procedures is not something that life prepares you for. We are very thankful for the advancements in CHD, and the doctors and surgeons that have played a role and continue to play a role in saving our son’s life. However there is a long way to go in the treatment of CHD for children and adults just like Watson.
Although these surgeries give Watson the best chance at a normal life, his heart is not cured. There are still possibilities of the Fontan blood flow failing, and causing damage to other organs in the body. It’s possible that a transplant could be needed one day. Our hope is that when and if that does happen, there are many more advancements in the treatment for congenital heart disease. This is why we fundraise every year with the Children’s Heart Foundation and take part in the St Louis Congenital Heart Walk.
We would love to have you join and walk with us to make a difference! Thank you!