Dakota's Medical Bills and Recovery

Dakota was born on January 1st, 2014. She is battling hypoplastic left heart syndrome(HLHS), Mitral Atresia (MA) & Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD).

HLHS is a complex and rare heart defect present at birth (congenital). In hypoplastic left heart syndrome, the left side of the heart is critically underdeveloped.

Mitral Atresia is a congenital obliteration of the mitral orifice, often associated with hypoplastic left heart syndrome or transposition on great vessels.

A ventricular septal defect (VSD), also called a hole in the heart, is a common heart defect that's present at birth (congenital). The defect involves an opening (hole) in the heart forming between the heart's lower chambers, allowing oxygen-rich and oxygen-poor blood to mix.

In June, Dakota was admitted to the Boston Children's Hospital for heart surgery. Her mom stayed with her in the hospital for weeks, while her dad mostly stayed home in NY to take care of Dakota's sister Sadie (with help from other family members) and to continue working in order to keep income coming in. Not all medical care required before, during, or after the surgery is covered by insurance, and Dakota's family could use a little help keeping up financially (although they would never ask for it!)

Some of Dakota's mom's friends decided to try and raise money to help the family with their existing medical expenses and during the recovery. The family is positive and loving and are handling everything with grace - but everyone needs a shoulder to lean on every now and then. Caring for an ill baby is exhausting, and anything we can do to help reduce financial stress during this difficult time can really help this family out.



Thank you for your kindness and support!