When our son Jake was only 6 days old, he was diagnosed with a critical congenital heart defect called tetralogy of Fallot. We were told that Jake would need open heart surgery within his first year of life. 

Determined to send Jake to the best heart surgeon in the country, our family began researching the nation’s best pediatric cardiothoracic surgery programs. It took less than one day before we realized that the best care in the world is right here in Pittsburgh at UPMC Children’s. After speaking with Surgeon-in-Chief Victor Morell, MD, who co-directs the Heart Institute, our decision was made: Jake would have open heart surgery at UPMC Children’s.

On June 19th, 2019, we brought our infant son to the Heart Institute for his repair, and by noon, baby Jake was wheeled off to the OR. Five hours later, the surgery was complete; Dr. Morell informed us of Jake’s successful repair and that he was able to spare the pulmonary valve.

Jake’s operation was only the beginning of his journey, as it was followed by a longer than anticipated stay in the Cardiac ICU. What made Jake’s recovery bearable, though, was his care. We were discharged nine days later and were able to take our healthy son home. Not everyone is so fortunate.

It has been a year and a half since Jake’s open heart surgery, but not a day goes by that our family isn’t grateful for UPMC Children’s Hospital. We have vowed to give back to the Heart Institute annually in honor of Jake’s Birthday. 

Last year, through the generosity of our family and friends, we raised $12,590 (!!!) and were able to purchase 12 telemetry pack machines for the cardiac ICU. These portable heart monitors allow cardiac patients  just like Jake to play, do physical therapy, and travel off of the unit while staying connected to the hospital’s central monitors. 

In honor of Jake’s 2nd Birthday, our family has chosen to fundraise for the Cardiac Neurodevelopment Outcomes Program. This comprehensive program monitors and addresses the neurodevelopment and psychosocial needs of children born with congenital heart disease and provide a platform for evaluation, therapy, and support to the children and their families.

Please join our family in support of The Heart Institute of UPMC Children’s Hospital.