Support Oscar's Heart Surgery Recovery

Kylie and Nick’s son, Oscar Akiho, was born on Christmas Eve. When he was born, the doctors noticed a possible heart murmur but were not concerned, and they scheduled a follow-up appointment for him to be on the safe side. They had that follow-up appointment two weeks later to check on his heart, and the pediatric cardiologist found an abnormality in his heart, diagnosing him with a congenital heart defect that would require urgent surgery. The hospital in Bozeman life-flighted Oscar and Kylie to Seattle Children’s Hospital. Nick was able to get a flight and meet them later that day.

The doctors at the Seattle Children’s Hospital did an echocardiogram on Oscar, and then a few days later, the board of surgeons met to decide Oscar’s method of surgery. On January 14th, he had surgery on his heart, specifically on a pinched aortic valve. Thankfully, the type of surgery involved going through his side, and they didn’t have to open up his chest. As you can imagine, this is every parent’s worst nightmare to have their 3-week-old baby go through a major surgery like this.

The wonderful news is that the surgery was successful, and Oscar is currently eating, cooing, and acting like a regular newborn. He’s a beautiful baby. A little miracle. They are hoping to rent a car to drive home to Bozeman in the next few days.

As you might expect, an unforeseen medical emergency and unexpected travel expenses in another state can really add up for a young family.

Please consider donating to lighten their financial burden during this tender time. Every amount, no matter the size, is deeply appreciated. Thank you!