Little Zippers

  Elizabeth's Story

     Elizabeth was born with Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome (HLHS), a condition in which the left side of the heart is undeveloped and not functional. Her first repair was the day after her birth, and she had 4 more heart surgeries, the last being a heart transplant. We took her home from the hospital with her new heart, a ventilator and trach, oxygen, a feeding tube and pump, full time nurses, and lots of therapists.

      Today she is a beautiful little girl, so full of life that she will take your breath away. Her ability to persevere through all of her doctor and hospital time with an attitude of joy and acceptance has been an inspiration to all. As she makes her way in the world, she interacts with people in a way that touches them deeply. Her therapists are now her sister and three brothers. They've taught her a lot, and she in turn has taught them the virtues of perseverance, generosity and hope. She is truly a wonderful gift to our family.

      Medically, her body is now rejecting her heart, and she is again on the list to receive another new one. But, this has not stopped her, as she is busy getting on with life. She is finally growing and learning to eat. Her mind is working constantly, trying to take it all in. She goes around telling people, I'm getting a new heart. Are you getting a new heart? This little girl has captured all of our hearts, and we hope and pray for her continued healing. Each day of her life is a gift, and we treasure each and every one of them.