Hope for Atlas: A Journey of Heart
On June 7, Atlas was born at just 36 weeks due to complications from preeclampsia. He came into the world small but mighty, spending his first precious hours in our arms. But by that evening, everything changed.
What began as routine care for low blood sugar and jaundice turned urgent when doctors noticed signs of heart failure. Within hours, Atlas was transferred from our local hospital to Akron Childrenâs NICU, where he was diagnosed with a rare and complex congenital heart condition: Shoneâs Complex, including coarctation of the aorta and a defect in his mitral valve.
He was only two days old.
After stabilizing in Akron, Atlas was transferred againâthis time to Cincinnati Childrenâs Hospitalâfor his first open-heart surgery on June 20. Surgeons worked to repair his aortic arch and mitral valve. We were hopeful. But five days later, the repair failed.
A second surgery was scheduled for July 7, then delayed twiceâfirst due to a bloodstream infection, then because his temperature dropped too low. Finally, on July 22, Atlas underwent a mitral valve replacement.
Right now, Atlas is recovering, fighting, and healing. But the road ahead is long and uncertain. His new valve may only last a year. If heâs healthy enough, we hope to get him on the heart transplant list, for a mitral valve transplant. If not, doctors will have to place a mechanical valve that will need replacing every few years as he grows.
We are raising funds to help cover travel, lodging, and long-term medical expensesânot just for this year, but for the journey ahead.
If youâre able to give, weâre deeply grateful. And if you canât, please consider sharing Atlasâs story. Every bit of love, support and prayers matter.
With hope and love,
Our Family
