What started as a routine pediatrician visit for Savannah quickly turned into something much more serious. During a regular checkup, a nurse noticed a heart murmur. After further testing, including an EKG and an echocardiogram by a cardiologist, it was confirmed that she has a condition called Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA). Her cardiologist determined that it is moderate to large in size, which increases the risk of complications and means a procedure is necessary to repair her heart.
Every baby is born with a small opening in the heart that typically closes on its own within a few days after birth. In her case, she's 2 and a half years old and that opening did not close, which is what causes PDA and leads to symptoms like low energy, difficulty gaining weight, loss of appetite, breathing issues, and excessive sweating, things no child should have to experience.
Now, Savannah needs a procedure to repair her heart. She will be traveling to Boston for surgery, which is expected to be a multiple hour procedure. Following the procedure, she may need to stay overnight for monitoring, and she won’t be able to travel home immediately.
Despite everything, she continues to show incredible strength. With so many doctor visits, she’s become familiar with the process when she sees a doctor, she sweetly says, “Oh, listen heart.” It’s a reminder of how much she’s already been through at such a young age.
Savannah loves “Poppahontas” (her adorable name for Pocahontas), school buses, her favorite snacks, and playing on the playground full of curiosity, imagination, and joy. Like her favorite princess, she carries a quiet bravery, facing each day with a strong little heart. She deserves to get back to those carefree moments, running, playing, and simply being a kid.
This journey comes with significant travel, medical, and living expenses while being away from home and work. We are coming together to help ease that burden so the focus can remain where it matters most, her health and recovery.
Any donation, big or small, will make a difference. If you’re unable to give, sharing this fundraiser means just as much.
Thank you for your kindness, support, and prayers during this time.
