We invite you to join us on a very special walk — one step at a time — as we raise support and awareness for our brave daughter, Blair. She just turned three this past February, and she is preparing for her final open-heart surgery to treat a rare and life-threatening heart condition called Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome (HLHS).
What is HLHS
Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome (HLHS) is a critical congenital heart defect that affects about 1 in every 3,841 babies born in the U.S. That’s roughly 2–3 out of every 10,000 births. In children with HLHS, the left side of the heart is severely underdeveloped. This means their heart cannot effectively pump oxygen-rich blood to the rest of the body, a function essential for life.
How Is It Treated?
HLHS cannot be cured, but it can be managed through a three-stage surgical process performed over the first few years of life:
- Norwood Procedure – typically done within the first week of life
- Glenn Procedure – around 4–6 months of age
- Fontan Procedure – usually between 2/½ to 4 years old
Blair has bravely undergone the first two surgeries, and now we are preparing for the third and final stage: the Fontan procedure.
Why We Walk for Blair
This walk is not just about raising funds, it’s about sharing Blair's story, increasing awareness about HLHS, and surrounding our daughter with the love and bear hugs she needs.
Update: Regardless of whether any portion of Blair’s medical care is covered by insurance or other sources, these funds will be used to cover the needs, care, and any expenses incurred by Da’Rell Bratton that are directly related to Blair’s well-being. As Blair’s needs continue to evolve, funds may also be used for any additional resources required to support and protect her long-term wellbeing. This includes medical care, therapeutic support, developmental needs, educational costs, daily living needs, and essential administrative or professional services necessary to ensure her safety, stability, long-term care, and overall best interests.
Thank You for Walking Beside Us
To all our friends, family, and kind-hearted supporters: Thank you from the bottom of our hearts. Your love means the world to us and helps lift us during the most difficult parts of this journey. Your presence, prayers, and generosity are what keep Blair smiling through every test, every needle, and every beat of her brave little heart.
If you would like to join us in walking October 5th 2025, or would like to donate to Childrens Heart Foundation you can do so here. https://events.chfwalk.org/event/houstontx/account/2058218
Update: This fundraiser is organized and managed solely by Darell Bratton, the father of Blair Bratton. Da'Rell Bratton has the exclusive legal authority to manage and allocate any funds created by him or his family for the benefit of the child.
This fundraiser is not affiliated with, authorized by, or controlled by any third party.