My Heart Surgery Journey — I Need Your Help

Hello friends,

My name is Sam MacDonald. I was born with a serious congenital heart defect called Tetralogy of Fallot, which meant I had four major problems with my heart. At just a week old, I underwent my first surgery to insert a shunt, followed by open-heart surgery at a year and a half for a full repair. Thanks to those surgeries, I was able to live, grow, and experience a full childhood.

Over the years, I’ve been closely monitored with countless tests and appointments. At 16, I was told I would eventually need another surgery. Now, as I approach 30 years old, I’ve been living in stage three heart failure caused by pulmonic regurgitation — one of the long-term complications of my condition.

Every day has become a challenge. I struggle with constant fatigue, shortness of breath, swelling, and visible blue veins running from my mouth to my hands, arms, and legs.

For the last several years, I’ve worked in childcare, providing one-on-one support for children with special needs. It’s a job that means the world to me, and despite my health struggles, I’ve held on as long as I could because those kids and families truly matter to me. But lately, simple things like walking, talking, or even standing for a short while leave me breathless and drained.

After a long road of tests and specialist visits, I’ve finally been scheduled for a crucial surgery to replace my pulmonary valve. Thankfully, the surgery itself is covered — but the travel, accommodations, food, Ubers, and recovery expenses far from home are more than I can manage on my own.

That’s where I need your help.

I’ll be traveling to the Mazankowski Alberta Heart Institute in Edmonton, and I’ll need to stay nearby both before and after the surgery for recovery and follow-up care. With time off work and medical limitations, every bit of support will help ease the financial stress of this journey.

Your donation will go directly toward:

• Travel to and from the hospital

• Accommodations during my hospital stay and recovery

• Food and daily essentials

• Uber rides to appointments and follow-ups

Even if you’re unable to donate, sharing this campaign would mean the world to me. Every bit of kindness brings me one step closer to a stronger heart, a healthier life, and getting back to the work — and the kids I love so much.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story, and for any kindness you’re able to share — from the bottom of my (somewhat faulty but always hopeful) heart.

With love,

Sam