Heart of a Lion

Before Blake was born, his mom Nicole knew he would have to climb mountains throughout his young life while dealing with HLHS. With HLHS, the left side of little Blake’s heart didn’t form all the way, but that wouldn’t stop him from facing life head on. He underwent numerous open heart surgeries and spent countless hours in the hospital. Blake never complained, and always had a positive attitude, as long as his mom was there by his side. Nicole never left Blake’s side, through 14 years of peaks and valleys, she showed her strength and love time and time again. He was never able to play sports because of his heart, but he made up for it with his love of the University of Louisville basketball and football. Those programs continuously proved their worth when visiting Blake giving him encouragement and support during his times in the hospital. Those were memories that he cherished and boasted about. On November 3rd, 2017, Blake found out that his new heart was on the way. After spending the previous 2 weeks in isolation at the hospital, it was finally time to be whole again. He was nervous, but was excited to run and play sports as other young men his age. His only request, that the heart not be from Lexington as he was afraid of waking up a Kentucky fan. That was Blake through and through. At 6am on Nov. 4 Blake went in for his Heart transplant. He was in surgery for 23 hours. Blake suffered many complications over the course of the next 4 days, but always held on. On Nov 8, 2017, Blake passed away. He was 14 years old. No heart was strong enough for Blake’s soul and zest for life. Jesus has a new angel now that is looking after us all. For his funeral services, we are asking for a small amount of support.