Ardelis, born 1982

My name is Ardelis and I am 29yrs old and will be 30 this year in November! I can't believe it. My mother was told I might not live pass the age of 5 and here I am, still kicking, almost 25 yrs later.

 

I am married and have a wonderful step daughter, named Tajianna, who lives with us. I have two heart defects: Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome and Transposition of the Great Arteries. So not only do I have "half a heart" but my "wiring" was screwed up as well. Here's a list of what I have had done: 4 months of age, cardiac catheterization; 10 months, the BT Shunt surgery; 2 yrs. Old, my 2nd cardiac catheterization; and the Glenn at 5yrs old; 3rd cardiac catheterization and a modified Fontan procedure.

 

 

So far I’ve been blessed and I have lived a pretty normal life. I’ve been in and out of college and I recently went back to see if I can finish my Associates in Early Childhood Education. Last year was a little challenging because I had a few episodes of heart palpitations which I found to be extremely scary. So far I’ve been okay and my cardiologist said I don’t have to worry too much unless they become more frequent and intense. I have my good days and my bad days, but more good than bad.

 

Story by Ardelis – Connecticut