Alexis

Alexis was born on July 18, 2002. She was a tiny 5 lbs.13 oz. She was the most beautiful girl I had ever laid eyes on. Minutes after birth, Alexis was taken to the nursery where she began desaturating multiple times. I was told that she may be a bit "sleepy" from the magnesium I had received during labor. At that point she was off to the NICU. Just six hours later I learned that my beautiful girl was diagnosed with critical aortic stenosis and Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome. She immediately started to receive Prostin, a medication to keep the ductus open along with many other medications including antibiotics due to being septic.

After careful consideration and many meetings with Alexis' team of Physicians, Alexis was placed on the National Organ Donor Waiting List. Miraculously, Alexis waited for her new heart for 6 months and 4 days. What a long wait it was. Alexis put up a HUGE fight, and is the bravest girl I know.

Alexis was able to come home after an 8 month stay in the NICU. As you can imagine, I was overwhelmed to bring home my baby girl. I bawled as we walked out of the Hospital. It was truly a day I will never forget.

Today, Alexis is a beautiful, spunky, little spitfire. She enjoys dancing to hip hop music, playing baseball, watching Elmo videos, dressing up, and watching football. She knows over 100 words in sign language, and is eager to be taught anything knew that comes her way.

Alexis has taught me the true meaning of life and to live each and every day to the fullest. I am blessed to be her Mommy.