In 2011, our co-founder Ryan, and his wife had their first daughter. Sofia. After being released with a clean bill of health from the hospital she was delivered at, she went for her first visit to her pediatricians. Within moments of the visit, her Doctor identified baby Sofia had a murmer in her heart.
Immediate Ryan and his wife took Sofia to St. Joseph's Children's Hospital for further testing. She was diagnosed with Double Outlet Right Ventricle (DORV). A very rare heart defect. The doctors requested we give Sofia six months to grow in order for increased odds of a successful surgey.
Six months later, the surgey was underway. What was intended to be a 7-10 day outpatient procedure took a turn for worse when Sofia had an unfavorable reaction to the bypass surgery. Resulting in a medically induced comma, further surgeries, and sleepless nights.
By the grace of God, and the amazing Doctors, Nurses, and staff at St. Joseph's Children's Hospital, Sofia returned to Ryan and his wife just in time to return home for Sofia's first Christmas.
In 2021, Sofia turns ten and she truly an amazing kid. A lover of animals and a natural artist, she is the whitelight that gives Ryan and his wife so much hope and faith.
Unfortunately, not all families are as fortunate and blessed as Ryan's. During their time in the PICU, Ryan witnessed many families in similar predicaments who's children sadly did not pull through.
It was from these events, that Ryan is committed to giving back to this organization, hospital, and staff that gave so much to him and his family.
Your donations and support mean more than you know. God bless!