The Carter family welcomed their first baby, Eliza Mae, on November 25, roughly five weeks before her due date. After several days in the hospital and a pending discharge to go home with mommy and daddy, Eliza started showing low oxygen levels. This led to several tests that ultimately found a heart defect.

Eliza was flown to All Children’s Hospital in St. Petersburg, where she underwent multiple tests. She was diagnosed with tricuspid atresia, hypoplastic right heart syndrome and d-transposition of the great arteries.

Doctors have determined that Eliza will need to undergo multiple heart surgeries. These procedures are performed in 3 stages over the next 3-4 years.

Her first surgery (called ‘The Norwood’) will take place as soon as she is strong enough, her second surgery (called ‘The Glenn’) will occur around 6 months old, and her third surgery (called ‘The Fontan’) will happen around 3 years old.

The Carters are staying in St. Petersburg and are by Eliza’s side daily. They will be at All Children’s for the next several months while Eliza recovers from her stage 1 surgery.

While we ask for your thoughts and prayers, we also ask for your help. The Carter family has a long road ahead, including unexpected medical bills and expenses.

Jonathan has protected our community over the years as a local Fire Inspector. As most of you know, Jessica has been an elementary school teacher for the last seven years. Her time in the classroom has been a blessing to so many of our children. It’s time to come together and bless them in return.

Thank you for keeping Eliza in your prayers and for your donation.

*UPDATE*

Jessica and Jonathan have started an online journal with updates on Eliza. Please feel free to click the link below to follow Eliza Mae’s story:

https://www.caringbridge.org/visit/elizamaecarter/journal