2021 was meant to be a year of joy, of anticipation, and of dreams coming true. My husband, our older son Antoś, and I were eagerly awaiting the birth of our second child. We imagined a home filled with laughter, tiny clothes folded neatly, and the quiet moments of a new life joining our family. Everything seemed perfect, ordinary even — until a routine prenatal test at the thirteenth week changed everything. I left the clinic in tears, my heart heavy with fear and despair. Our little baby growing beneath my heart had a
complex, life-threatening heart defect. In that moment, the excitement of parenthood collided with a reality we could never have anticipated: from the very beginning, our son’s life would be a fight for survival.
Leoś was born on March 17, 2021, a tiny bundle of hope already carrying enormous challenges. Diagnosed with right ventricular hypoplasia (HRHS), a ventricular septal defect (VSD), tricuspid valve overriding, and an abnormal subvalvular apparatus
, his heart was fragile and his body vulnerable. These medical terms, incomprehensible at first, became the markers of every fear, every sleepless night, and every hospital visit that would follow. From his very first breaths, it was clear that survival would not be simple. Complex, delicate surgery would be necessary to save him, and the risks were immense.
The long scar across his chest is a daily reminder of the battle he has already fought. His first pulmonary stenosis surgery was a triumph, yet it was only the beginning. Leoś now faces additional surgeries — possibly one, possibly two — to protect the function of his right ventricle. Without these operations, his heart could fail again, placing him in mortal danger. The next procedure is complicated and carries serious risks. In the worst-case scenario, doctors may have to convert his heart into a
single-chambered heart, a procedure that challenges even the most experienced pediatric cardiac surgeons. But as daunting as it is, it is necessary. Leoś’s life depends on it.
To give our son the best chance, we searched for help far beyond our borders. That’s how we found the University Clinic in Munster, where Professors Malec and Januszewska lead teams renowned for performing complex cardiac surgeries on children like Leoś. They are among the few specialists in the world capable of handling such intricate procedures. But excellence comes at a cost — one that we cannot meet on our own. Every aspect of this surgery, from preoperative care to postoperative monitoring, requires substantial financial resources. It is a sum far beyond what any family could realistically raise in such a short time.
Every day, we see the courage and resilience of our son. Despite all he has endured, he is a bright, loving child, whose heart fights for every beat. The little smiles, the moments of play, the quiet coos and laughter — these are reminders of the life he deserves, the childhood he should have, and the future that is still within reach. Yet, we cannot fight this battle alone. The weight of Leoś’s condition is heavy — physically, emotionally, and financially — and every procedure, every consultation, every step toward healing is a reminder of the fragility of life.
The emotional toll is immense. Each day brings difficult decisions, fear, and uncertainty. Our family’s life has been restructured entirely around Leoś — appointments, hospital visits, therapies, and the constant vigilance of a child fighting for his heart. Yet, amidst the exhaustion and fear, there is also hope. There is love, fierce and unwavering, that fuels our determination to give him every possible chance.
Leoś’s fight is not only for survival — it is for the right to grow, to play, to learn, and to experience life surrounded by the family who adores him. Every heartbeat is precious, every smile a victory. His story is a testament to the power of courage in the smallest of bodies and the unwavering devotion of parents who refuse to surrender.
That is why we are asking for your help. Every contribution, every share, every act of support is another step toward keeping Leoś alive, another step toward giving him the chance to live a full, healthy life. His story is urgent, his need immediate, and his fight real.
Leoś’s courage inspires us every day. His life is precious, and his heart is worth fighting for. Please stand with us. Help us save Leoś’s heart, help us give him the life he deserves, and help ensure that this brave little boy’s fight is not fought alone.
Leoś Gałęzowski — a tiny boy with a big fight, whose survival depends on our collective hope, support, and love.
❤️ Every donation matters. Every share spreads hope. Please help us give Leoś the chance to live.
