Declan, born 1999

Declan was born 18 years ago with atypical Shone's syndrome and has had 5 open heart surgeries, including a double valve replacement and another double valve re-placement.  He has had many complications, including a stroke and endocarditis and, for sixteen years, has lived with the complications of being fully anti-coagulated.  

 

What is amazing about Declan is that he has an uplifting, practical and inspiring attitude about living his life with his heart defect.  He was recently asked to give a TED talk in which he summarizes his amazing attitude on https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pKrQIHbeqW4.  We hope that it is inspiring to others, for whom he may serve as a role model.

 

Story by Declan's mom, Kalli - Maine