Shane with Mom Crystal

Shane at Birth

Shane was born in Wellington, Florida via emergency c-section because his heart rate was decreasing. At birth he was found to have a congenital heart defect known as Ebstein's Anomaly of the Tricuspid Valve (severe form) and pulmonary stenosis. He was immediately transported to Jackson Memorial Hospital in Miami, Florida. This was such a hard time for me as a new mother. Having a c-section, I was unable to follow him to Miami for the first few days, so his Dad followed the ambulance. We were blessed to have a Ronald McDonald House to stay at during our time there.

At 4 weeks of age he underwent his first open heart surgery and had a temporary shunt put in so that he no longer required full-time oxygen use. In August of 2006 he had a heart catheterization and they had to "coil" an artery. In September of 2006 he received a bi-directional Glenn Shunt. He is scheduled for another heart cath in June 2008.

Shane receives 3 Synagis injections each month and suffers from asthma and allergies. He has received occupational therapy and now attends a little preschool for a few hours each week.

Even with his medical problems, we still count our blessings. He has completed our family and has taught us how to cherish each day of life.