Mikayel's Heart

At any given moment, your life as you know it can change unexpectedly. It all started when baby Mikayel went in for his 4 month checkup on Thursday, May 2nd 2019. While entering his measurements on the  Baby Center App, I realized that he only gained one pound since his previous checkup in February. When the doctor asked if I had any concerns, I pointed out that he was somewhat fussier over the past week and his breathing pattern appeared irregular. The doctor took a better look and noticed that his chest seemed a little enlarged and proceeded with a chest x-ray. The results of the x-ray stated bronchiolitis or early congestive heart failure. I was told that he needed an echocardiogram to confirm his diagnosis. Not being able to have the procedure done on St. Croix, US Virgin Islands, Mikayel and I left my husband and three sons behind and took the next available commercial flight off the island. On May 3rd, we went straight from the airport to the Arnold Palmer Hospital in Orlando, FL where he was diagnosed with idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy. A few days later, we were then transported by ambulance to UF Health Shands Children’s Hospital for heart transplant evaluation. At this time, Mikayel is hospitalized at the UF Health Shands Children’s Hospital where his current health status is stable with heart failure.  His daily routine includes a regiment of several medications and a constant IV drip. Our prayer is for him to get well, return home, and be able to grow up with his siblings. Despite his condition, Mikayel has continued to be a sweet and loving baby. He always has a smile on his face which encourages everyone to stay strong and hopeful. We are asking our community, family, and friends for their continued support, positive thoughts, and prayers.