Donate to help Ellie Besola and her family.

Eliina "Ellie" Besola was born June 20, 2023. She weighed 5 lbs 5oz and was 18.5 inches long. She appeared normal in every way.

Ellie’s parents, Erin and Mat, were beyond excited as they began planning for the future of their daughter.

After a few months passed concern was raised that Ellie was not developing as expected physically. The phrase “failure to thrive” became the diagnosis with no definitive reason or corrective path.

After more than one misdiagnosis a pediatric cardiologist made the correct one. Ellie has a large ventricular septal defect; a large hole between the two chambers of her heart. Ellie’s heart is working overtime to supply her body with what it needs. At 5 months Ellie weighs 9lbs 0oz.

This defect is uncommon but not rare. Often the defect will correct itself prior to birth, Ellie’s did not. Surgery is the only answer.

Ellie is scheduled for open heart surgery on December 7th, 5 ½ months after her birth, at the University of Michigan Children’s Hospital in Ann Arbor. It is anticipated that the surgery will be a success but the recovery will be lengthy. Ellie will remain in the ICU for at least 7 days prior to returning home. She will then require continuous, around the clock, care and monitoring for at least 30 days.

Erin is the House Manager at Trillium House caring for those in hospice or requiring respite care, Mat is in construction. Both will be off work for Ellie's surgery with plans for Mat to return to work when her condition is stable at home and for Erin to return to work once Ellie has recovered.

Travel and lodging costs to Ann Arbor during Ellie’s surgery and ICU recovery, unknown but significant medical expenses, and loss of income are going to place a severe strain on Erin and Mat.

This appeal is to help alleviate that strain. Erin and Mat should only have to worry about caring for Ellie and helping her to flourish. With our help that can be achieved.