Help Benjamin’s SVT Journey

This is my grandson, Benjamin. He is 12 years old and is in the 7th grade at Alcoa Middle School. He is an honor student, loves basketball, and loves running. He runs on the AMS cross country team and track team. Most importantly, he loves his family. He takes his job as big brother to his 6-year-old sister very seriously and diligently watches over her.

On August 28th Benjamin was diagnosed with Supraventricular tachycardia (SVT). SVT is characterized by an abnormally fast heart rhythm/heartbeat caused by disruption to the heart’s electrical system.

Initially, Benjamin experienced frightening episodes in which his heart rate would measure as high as 260 BPM. Other symptoms included irregular heart rhythms which slowly worsened. Upon consulting with a cardiologist, Benjamin was outfitted with a heart monitor. After 20 days of wearing it, he had another episode and was instructed to return to the cardiologist the next day for an EKG and an echo ultrasound. Test results confirmed SVT.

The good news is that there is a heart surgery to correct SVT, called Ablation. This is the best option for Benjamin to have a healthy heart again. Ablation is a highly successful procedure that can permanently restore the heart’s normal rhythm. He will be having this procedure at Vanderbilt Children’s Hospital on September 19th. The surgery will take about 3 hours.

While thankful there is a procedure option available, it is very expensive. The family has insurance but is responsible for substantial out of pocket deductible expenses, travel, follow up appointments, and medication.

Many of you know my daughter and her family. Sissy is a very dedicated self-employed photographer and friend to many. She works hard to provide a home and opportunities for her family - never asking for anything and never complaining. I invite you, if you are able, to join me in taking some financial stress off Sissy and her family as they go through this journey.

It is my hope that together we can relieve some stress for this deserving family and get Benjamin running once again!

John Andrew Holmes, Jr.