Ben’s Health Battle

Hello everyone,

This is Annamarie, Ben’s mom. I haven’t shared what is going on with our son on social media however he has had an extremely difficult almost 2 years. We are asking you if you’re able to help him as we continue towards another hard health battle.

We found out in utero that he had a very rare congenital heart defect called a vascular ring and with that comes other heart and health defects.

Unfortunately, at 6 weeks old he started to have a series of surgeries. He was in and out of the hospital for months. On top of many scans, under anesthesia, physical therapy, helmets, and many tests.

His first cardiologist completely dropped the ball. As, he was not versed in what was going on with our child. We sought out for a second opinion at Children’s Milwaukee. Which he ended up having his first major heart surgery within a week of me contacting them. He spent a week in the hospital and we have traveled back and forth numerous times (multiple times a month) following his surgery. Since, his surgery he has gone through even more testing and therapies.

But, that brings us to now. His symptoms have worsened. As I have done research I found Boston Children’s hospital- the ONLY hospital in the world that specializes in his condition. I have been in contact with them for weeks and they have stated that his case is “not classic”. As he has other complications not only cardiac issues. We will have to travel to Boston for extensive testing and surgery. At minimum we will be staying there a month as well as traveling back and forth.

The expense is going to be very large I just want to see Ben get past this and be able to thrive. Any amount you are able to contribute to Ben’s battle would be very helpful.

Thank you so much for your kindness at this very difficult time.

Annamarie