Olivia’s Heart Story

Olivia’s journey began with a complex congenital heart condition that has required incredible strength, resilience, and faith from the very start. Throughout her life, she has faced challenges that most adults could never imagine, yet she continues to smile, love, and inspire everyone around her.

Her heart journey includes several major surgeries:

• BT Shunt – November 6, 2018

• Glenn Procedure – June 18, 2019

• Fenestrated Fontan – April 25, 2022

• Left-Sided Thoracotomy – May 3, 2022

• Fenestration Closure – March 17, 2023

• Pacemaker Implant – November 20, 2025

Each surgery has represented another step forward in Olivia’s journey and another reminder of her incredible courage.

On May 19, 2026, Olivia traveled to Texas Children’s Hospital for several specialist appointments. While there was a lot of encouraging news, there were also some difficult conversations.

The liver specialist explained that Olivia has some liver scarring related to her Fontan circulation. At this time, the scarring is not severe or immediately concerning, but it will require close monitoring every six months. The doctors explained that some degree of liver scarring is expected in Fontan patients because of the unique way blood circulates through the body after surgery.

They also shared that if the scarring were to progress significantly over the next decade, there is a possibility that Olivia could someday require a heart transplant or even a combined heart and liver transplant. As a parent, hearing those words was incredibly difficult. However, the medical team reassured us that this is exactly why the liver specialists are now part of Olivia’s care team—to closely monitor her health, prevent complications, and stay ahead of any changes.

We also met with the nephrology team, who shared positive news. Everything looked good from their perspective. They recommended restarting Olivia’s iron medication and noted some mild congestion in her lungs that will continue to be monitored.

Her cardiologist and electrophysiology (EP) team were also encouraged by her progress. They plan to order a Holter monitor to continue tracking her heart rate and junctional rhythm and ensure her pacemaker is supporting her as intended.

One challenge we continue to face is Olivia’s energy level. The doctors encourage her to stay active, but she often tires quickly despite her determination. She gives her best effort every day, and we will continue working with her cardiology team to help her thrive. She eats well overall, although convincing her to eat meat remains a challenge—unless it’s hidden in lasagna.

As a mom, it’s hard not to focus on the difficult possibilities that may lie ahead. Sometimes one hard conversation can overshadow all the good news. But through every appointment, every procedure, every uncertainty, and every prayer, Olivia continues to remind us what strength truly looks like.

Her story is not defined by diagnoses, surgeries, or future possibilities. It is defined by courage, faith, perseverance, and hope.

We take it one appointment at a time. One day at a time. One prayer at a time.

And through it all, Olivia continues to show strength every single day.

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” — Jeremiah 29:11

I want to express my heartfelt thanks for taking a moment to visit my fundraising page.

This year, I'm walking with extra purpose as The Children's Heart Foundation celebrates 30 incredible years of funding research that saves lives and changes futures. My commitment to making a difference has led me to participate in the Congenital Heart Walk, an event that carries immense significance for me—especially knowing that for three decades, CHF has been the leading force behind the treatments and surgical advances that help children with congenital heart defects thrive.

It's not just a walk; it's a stride toward the next 30 years of hope. This endeavor is all about supporting The Children's Heart Foundation's crucial mission—advancing the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of congenital heart defects through groundbreaking research that improves survival rates, reduces complications, and helps Heart Warriors celebrate more birthdays than ever before.

I warmly invite you to become a part of this milestone journey by supporting my fundraising efforts. Together, we can raise the funds essential to continue the life-saving research that turns heartbreak into hope. Your contribution holds immeasurable value to me and to every family who needs CHF's support.

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