Three months ago, Amber learned she had a significant congenital heart defect that requires open-heart surgery. The defect in her heart is an atrial septal defect (ASD). In simple terms, there is an abnormal hole between the right and left sides of her heart that must be closed so the heart will function properly. The size of Amber’s ASD is significantly large and will require surgery. As you can imagine, this news came as a shock to Amber and her family. They feel incredibly fortunate the defect was found now and that it can be successfully repaired before terminal damage to her heart occurs.
If you know Amber, her bravery, conviction, and loyal love has affected your life. We know so many of you want to support Amber and her family during this trying time. We invite you to offer your support through this GoFundMe to help cover the medical expenses her family will be navigating over the next several months.
After researching the options for care, it was discovered Amber could have this procedure done with assistance from a robot at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN. This eliminates the need to break her sternum. So while it is still considered open-heart surgery her recovery and hospital stay will be minimized. Amber will travel to the Mayo Clinic for her surgery on February 1, 2021. Being away from home will be difficult, but she will receive the best care in the nation, with providers specializing in ASDs. It is expected insurance will cover a portion of the costs for the surgery. However, that still leaves a significant amount in bills that insurance will not cover, as well as extra expenses for the previous tests, medical visits, and travel. We are SO grateful a surgery is available to Amber and we want to help share the costs that will make it possible for her.
We want to also share Amber and Brandon’s immense gratitude to everyone who has offered their support, prayers, and encouragement. They are grateful beyond measure.
Thank you for joining us! We will be sending periodic updates on Amber’s health and recovery here.
With gratitude,
Rachel and Abi
If you know Amber, her bravery, conviction, and loyal love has affected your life. We know so many of you want to support Amber and her family during this trying time. We invite you to offer your support through this GoFundMe to help cover the medical expenses her family will be navigating over the next several months.
After researching the options for care, it was discovered Amber could have this procedure done with assistance from a robot at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN. This eliminates the need to break her sternum. So while it is still considered open-heart surgery her recovery and hospital stay will be minimized. Amber will travel to the Mayo Clinic for her surgery on February 1, 2021. Being away from home will be difficult, but she will receive the best care in the nation, with providers specializing in ASDs. It is expected insurance will cover a portion of the costs for the surgery. However, that still leaves a significant amount in bills that insurance will not cover, as well as extra expenses for the previous tests, medical visits, and travel. We are SO grateful a surgery is available to Amber and we want to help share the costs that will make it possible for her.
We want to also share Amber and Brandon’s immense gratitude to everyone who has offered their support, prayers, and encouragement. They are grateful beyond measure.
Thank you for joining us! We will be sending periodic updates on Amber’s health and recovery here.
With gratitude,
Rachel and Abi
Organizer and beneficiary
Abi Eaton
Organizer
Guthrie, OK
Amber Rittenhouse-Cook
Beneficiary