Rowan’s journey began in the womb. At 30 weeks gestation, he was diagnosed with DORV, VSD, PFO, and malposition of the great arteries. After birth, additional complications were discovered, including pulmonary atresia. Born at 34 weeks, Rowan spent 28 days in the NICU, during which he also developed NEC of the colon due to perfusion issues. At 1 month old, Rowan underwent a catheterization procedure to place a PDA stent, which maintains blood flow to his lungs. He is now 4

Regina was diagnosed prenatally with DiGeorge syndrome and Tetralogy of Fallot, beginning her journey as a true heart warrior before she even entered the world. Since birth, she has undergone two heart catheterizations, a major open-heart surgery, and two additional procedures — one for her throat and another for her G-tube. Regina continues to fight for her heart and lung health, working diligently in feeding therapy to learn to swallow, and demonstrating resilience and de

Gracie was born following a healthy pregnancy, with no issues detected during scans or check-ups. Although her birth was smooth, she struggled immediately: her heart rate was low and she was blue, requiring 11 minutes of resuscitation. Once she stabilized in her parents’ arms, they thought the worst was over. Early check-ups showed everything was fine, and the family was cleared to go home. However, subtle signs began to worry her parents: her skin was constantly mottled, h

Christian’s journey began as a miracle. After years of being told his mother wouldn’t be able to have children, his parents finally welcomed him following a positive pregnancy test. At 20 weeks gestation, concerns about his heart led to a specialist evaluation, and by 22 weeks, Christian was diagnosed with HLHS (Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome) and DILV. Christian’s parents faced multiple trips to the children’s hospital — 3.5 hours away — and underwent 1–3 stress tests per

Jace is a twin whose journey began before birth. At his 20-week scan, his family learned he has Isolated Dextrocardia, meaning his heart is on the right side of his chest instead of the usual left. Initially, doctors said this wouldn’t be an issue, but follow-up testing revealed additional congenital heart defects, including TAPVR to the coronary sinus and two septal defects (ASD and VSD). Born on September 11, 2025, Jace faced immediate challenges. He was transferred via L

Ariya is currently 16 months old and was born with HLHS (Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome) and severe AVS. Her life has been a series of mountains to climb, but she has faced every challenge with determination and courage. Her journey began at just six days old with the Norwood procedure. What followed was a whirlwind of hurdles, including a Sano stent, an emergency BTT shunt after developing hypoxemia, and the terrifying complication of a blood clot. For weeks, her chest re

Mathew was born with cor triatriatum, a very rare congenital heart defect. While thankfully fixable, it posed serious challenges from the start. At just three months old, Mathew faced life-threatening complications from his condition. Though he struggled through his earliest days, his spirit and courage were undeniable. Today, at 15 months, Mathew continues to inspire his family and everyone who knows his story. His journey is a testament to the strength and resilience of

Ari, whose name means “Lion of God,” has already proven just how fitting that name is. He was born on March 23, 2023, weighing 8 pounds 4 ounces. Everything seemed perfect — until just a few hours after his birth. While holding him and trying to feed him, I noticed his breathing was raspy and labored. When I brought this up, a nurse initially dismissed my concerns as normal for newborns. But as his breathing worsened, a nurse finally listened to my instincts. What followe

Every child is a warrior. This is where thier stories are told. The diagnoses that changed everything. The surgeries that no parent is ever repared for. The long hospital days, the tiny victories, the losses that never stop huring, and the moments that remind us why we keep fighting. Warrior Stories is a place for CHD families to share the real, unfiltered journeys behind the diagnosis. Because behind every statistic is a child. Behind every child is a family. And every stor