Caleb’s Heart Surgery Fund

Caleb had his first open-heart surgery at 7 days old, where his heart was partially repaired. We knew one day we'd need to get his valve replaced, but it was estimated this wouldn't happen until Caleb was 17-18 years old, old enough to do this as a minimally invasive procedure through a catheter.

Caleb is regularly monitored at CHOP, and his most recent MRI came back with urgency.

Caleb is in heart failure, and it's progressing quickly. It is now affecting his liver. His heart is enlarged and weighing on his other organs. His heart isn't pumping blood out due to his valve being fully dilated, and the blood is pooling in his heart. He's developed dark circles under his eyes, is sensitive to temperature and exercise, and his legs always hurt. His body is working too hard.

He needs another open-heart surgery to save his life. The cardiologist says this surgery needs to be done within the next 90 days. Within the next few weeks, I'll be meeting with the surgeon and working closely with his care team at CHOP to plan and prepare for surgery. He will need to wear a heart monitor until he has his procedure for his safety.

Recovery is expected to be 6-8 weeks. Inpatient varies; the minimum stay is 7-10 days if there are no complications.

We have little time to prepare and make arrangements for transportation, bills, food, care for Caleb's brother, recovery, and therapy. Honestly, I can't even think of all the expenses we had last time we went through this. It was overwhelming.

We will be by his side throughout his hospital stay and his recovery. With that being said, we will be out of work while we give Caleb the care, love, and support he deserves.

We've been through open-heart surgery with Caleb before. I know how much money we are looking at. I also know the mental toll it's going to take on our family.

It truly takes a village. A team of cardiac surgeons, doctors, and specialists; a community of family and friends.

This is a difficult time for our family, as you can imagine. Caleb is a very special boy. I want all of our attention to be on him, not stressing over finances. Anything helps.

Keep Caleb in your prayers. Together we will fight this!