In February 2020, Evita and her partner Ziggy were overjoyed to learn that they were expecting their third child, a long-awaited baby girl. Their excitement quickly grew as they envisioned their lives with a new little one joining their family. However, at their 20-week scan, a routine checkup turned into a life-altering moment. The sonographer discovered something wasn’t quite right with their baby’s heart, setting them on an emotional journey they could never have anticipated.
The Heartbreaking Diagnosis
The weeks that followed were filled with fear, confusion, and uncertainty. Evita was sent for a repeat scan, and after further examination, the couple received the devastating news that their baby had Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome (HLHS), a complex congenital heart defect. In addition to HLHS, Gabriela also had other defects, including a ventricular septal defect (VSD) and coarctation of the aorta. The doctors explained that Gabriela had a 50% chance of surviving to age five, and the family was given a choice: terminate the pregnancy, let her pass away after birth, or attempt a series of surgeries to give her a chance at life.
“This was the worst day of our lives,” Evita recalls. “We didn’t know how to tell our children or our families. I remember messaging my family to say that we might not have our baby for long.” Despite the overwhelming sadness, Evita and Ziggy made a promise to each other: they would do everything they could to give Gabriela a fighting chance. They chose to move forward with the hope that their daughter could defy the odds.
A Promising Start
On July 21, 2021, Gabriela was born, a beautiful baby girl weighing 7lbs 3.5oz. Although she didn’t cry immediately, Gabriela was breathing on her own and was perfectly pink in color. After a quick cuddle, she was taken to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), where she started medication to keep her heart functioning. The next few hours were filled with worry and anxiety, but seeing her alive and stable gave her parents a sense of hope.
Gabriela’s first major surgery, the Norwood procedure, was scheduled for July 27. “I didn’t want them to take my baby away and stop her heart,” says Evita. “But I knew she needed the surgery.” The agonizing hours of waiting ended in relief when the surgery was successful. Gabriela spent five days in PICU, battling infections, low oxygen levels, and a fast heart rate, but each day she grew stronger.
The Struggles Continue
At three weeks and two days old, Gabriela received the best news: she was stable enough to go home. After weeks in the hospital, Evita and Ziggy were overjoyed to finally bring their daughter home and introduce her to her two older brothers. But the road ahead was still uncertain, as Gabriela’s medical team prepared for her next major surgery, the Glenn procedure.
However, things took a turn for the worse in December. During a routine CT scan, Gabriela’s oxygen levels dropped dangerously low, leading doctors to decide on emergency surgery. On December 29, she underwent the Glenn procedure, but the surgery was far more complicated than anticipated. Gabriela lost a significant amount of blood during the operation, requiring hours of blood transfusions to stabilize her. After the surgery, Gabriela faced many challenges, including a chest infection, severe pain, and low oxygen levels. But despite the odds, she kept fighting.
A Fighter Against the Odds
Gabriela spent a week in ICU, enduring intense pain and complications. Yet, she showed incredible resilience. After a difficult recovery, she was transferred back to the high dependency unit (HDU), where she began to stabilize. It wasn’t long before Gabriela was allowed to go home again. “I still can’t get my mind around everything that’s happened,” says Evita. “But I feel so happy that she’s home.”
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Even though the Glenn surgery wasn’t as successful as doctors had hoped, Gabriela’s progress continues to amaze her family. “She is such a happy little girl,” says Evita. “She keeps us going and enjoys every single day, especially in such difficult times.”
Looking Ahead with Hope
Gabriela’s journey is far from over. She will likely need several more surgeries in the future to address her heart condition, but Evita and Ziggy remain hopeful. Their daughter’s strength and joy in life give them the courage to face the uncertain road ahead. “We don’t know how long we will have with her,” Evita says, “but every day with Gabriela is a gift.”
Evita and Ziggy are deeply grateful to the medical team that has supported Gabriela every step of the way, as well as to the heart groups and other parents who have offered advice and comfort. Their gratitude also extends to organizations like Tiny Tickers, which work tirelessly to raise awareness of congenital heart defects and support families facing similar challenges.
A Journey of Love, Strength, and Gratitude
Through all of the pain, uncertainty, and setbacks, Gabriela has shown her family the true meaning of resilience. Every milestone, no matter how small, is a victory in their eyes. And while Gabriela’s future remains uncertain, her parents are committed to supporting her every step of the way. “She’s already come so far, and we believe she will continue to amaze us,” says Evita.
As they move forward, Evita and Ziggy are determined to raise awareness about congenital heart defects and ensure that more families like theirs receive the support they need. They are also committed to fundraising for Tiny Tickers, which provides vital resources to families affected by CHD.
Gabriela’s story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit, the power of love, and the importance of early diagnosis and intervention. Despite the challenges, her journey is filled with hope, and her family remains filled with gratitude for the precious time they have with her.