Baby Hope was born on the 2nd Jan 2021. During pregnancy, her mum was informed that Hope had a Double Outlet of the right Ventricle and would require corrective surgery after 6 months. Unfortunately, when Hope was 2 weeks old she became very ill due to severe pulmonary stenosis causing spasms and restricting blood flow to her lungs. Baby Hope had her first keyhole surgery to insert 2 stents into her artery;  this went well and Hope was sent home 3 days later.

At 11 weeks old her oxygen levels dropped and she was rushed back to Leeds Hospital, 2 days later she had open heart surgery aimed at repairing her heart. This was unsuccessful and a shunt (bridge) was fitted from one artery to further up her pulmonary artery to allow blood to her lungs. Sadly, her kidneys stopped functioning due to difficulties getting off the bypass machine and one side of her stomach stopped functioning. After days on various medications, she began developing blood clots around the shunt stopping it from functioning and her lungs flooded as a result.

She had her second keyhole surgery to diagnose the malfunction and found one of her valves to be severely damaged and leaking. A decision was taken to attempt a full repair.  However, things took a turn for the worst and Hope's body began shutting down. On 4th May, Hope's parents were given 2 options; keep her comfortable and she may survive 24/48 hours or perform an extremely high risk operation with a 5% chance of survival. Hope's parents opted for the operation which successfully closed off the damaged valve, opened the hole in her heart even more so oxygenated and unoxygenated blood was mixing more easily.  

3 weeks later she was taken out of intensive care and slowly weaned off her medications. She is finally out of hospital, getting stronger each day and even had her first meeting with her cousin Rubie (my daughter). 

The Sick Children’s Trust have supported the family from the start and throughout baby Hope's journey. They provided free accommodation next to the hospital, ensuring the family had one less issue to worry about. They also help with the general welfare of the family.