When Ellen became ill we thought she had a stomach bug. Her symptoms didn't suggest anything to alarm us at first. She kept up with her very active lifestyle and hardly missed a beat! Her Nemour's Pediatrician, Dr. Harkness examined her in the office and urgently sent us to the hospital in Wilmington for cardiac consults and imaging. There was no delay in admitting, treating and researching her findings to get the answers. We were shocked to learn that Ellen was in severe heart failure due to severe dilated cardiomyopathy. A few days later testing would confirm it was because of genetics. The plan of care didn't change and it was without a doubt that she needed a heart transplant to survive.  

   Ellen received her Gift of Life at Nemours and shortly after that she had a second open heart surgery to remove a blood clot from her heart. She's had several admissions, been treated for rejection, and has learned how protect herself and be a "normal" kid in a not so normal world. This includes months of social distancing post transplant followed by the unexpected and strict distancing she now must adhere to due to COVID-19. This year has been full of challenges but Ellen continues to look toward the future with excitement and positivity. Every step of the way the members of the Cardiology and Transplant team have worked with determination and compassion to give her the best care. Words can not explain the gratitude and love we have for the whole staff at Nemours. 

   Ellen is doing well. She is getting ready for 5th grade. She enjoys riding her bike, swimming, singing, dancing, drawing, basketball and camping with her family. Like many of the other kids, Ellen will have frequent outpatient and inpatient visits. We want all of these kids to remain healthy and live their best lives! We want their families to worry less, trust more and know that through our fundraising efforts we support them too.

   Please join me in supporting pediatric heart health by contributing to the Cardiology Department at Nemours Hospital for Children in celebration of Ellen's 1st Heart Anniversary. 

Your donation will also help us honor her donor who gave the greatest gift.