Samira “Sami” Chellouf has been fighting for her life since the day she was born.

She entered the world with multiple critical congenital heart defects and, at just two weeks old, underwent major open-heart surgery on December 23rd. During this complex operation, surgeons performed the Yasui and Norwood procedures to completely reconstruct her heart and aortic arch.

While most families were celebrating Christmas at home, Sami spent her very first one unconscious and recovering in the PICU.

Now two months later, her heart is functioning beautifully — a true testament to her strength — but her journey is far from over. Sami remains at BC Children’s Hospital due to serious complications following surgery. She has paralysis in both vocal cords and cannot safely swallow, requiring a feeding tube for nutrition. This has put her at risk for aspiration and she is currently being treated for pneumonia. She also struggles with severe feeding intolerance with the current NG tube - she vomits after almost every feed, and doctors are working to find a safe, long-term solution.

Because Sami requires constant care and advocacy, one parent must be by her side at all times. As a result, Tarek has been unable to return to work, creating unexpected financial strain during an already overwhelming time.

Despite everything she has endured, Sami continues to show incredible resilience and strength every single day. This fundraiser was created to support her family with expenses and lost income so they can focus entirely on what matters most — helping their brave little girl heal.

Any donation or share means more than words can express. Thank you for standing with Sami and her family during this difficult journey.