Clayton, born 2011

Brendan was born in 2006 with multiple congenital heart defects; interrupted aortic arch, VSD, ASD, dysplastic pulmonary valve, and dextrocardia. Following his first surgery at age 6 days, he developed complete heart block and had a permanent pacemaker placed. He spent nearly six months in the hospital, mostly in the PICU, with many complications. He had his pulmonary valve replaced at three months of age, and pacemaker leads replaced at the age of two. He is due for another major procedure in the next year to place a Melody valve. Brendan is in kindergarten this year and has his struggles.

 

Story by Brendan’s mom, Deb - Iowa