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Welcome and Introduce Yourself

Anonymous Member

Anonymous Member06-10-2023 02:08

Anonymous Member

Anonymous Member06-10-2023 07:01

  • 1.  Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 03-14-2017 11:45
    Hi!
    We are so excited to be launching our online communities! This space is for all Mended Little Hearts families and patients. Please feel free to introduce yourself and get the conversation started. 

    I am Andrea Baer and I am the Director of Patient Advocacy here at Mended Hearts and Mended Little Hearts. I am also the community manager here at Connections in a Heartbeat as well as the parent to a child who was born with a CHD. Trenton turns 8 on St. Patrick's Day. I founded MLH of Southwestern, PA, served as the National Growth and Development National Chair, and then the Vice President of MLH on the Executive Committee of the Mended Hearts Board of Directors. 

    Looking forward to get to know everyone!

    ------------------------------
    Andrea Baer
    Grapeville PA
    (724) 396-7820
    ------------------------------


  • 2.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 03-14-2017 16:17
    Hi!  My name is Shannan Pearsall and I am the Group Coordinator for MLH of Long Island!  I am a heart mom to Aidan (8 years old with HLHS). I am also the MLH National Social Media Chair!

    You can reach me at socialmedia@mendedlittlehearts.org or shannanpearsall@gmail.com


    ~Shannan

    ------------------------------
    Shannan Pearsall
    Lynbrook NY
    (516) 812-5148
    ------------------------------



  • 3.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 03-15-2017 14:19
    Hello! I am a CHD Survivor with Tetralogy of Fallot. I also am the Co-coordinator for the Central Virginia Group and can be reached at help4littlehearts@yahoo.com.


    ------------------------------
    Lauren Gray
    North Chesterfield VA
    804-928-5629
    ------------------------------



  • 4.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 03-14-2017 22:02
    Hello! 
    My name is Nicole Sanchez, I am the RD for Mended Little Hearts in the Western region. I am also a coordinator for MLH of the Bay Area (San Francisco). I am an adult with a CHD, born with tricuspid atresia/HRHS. I'm excited for this new way of connecting to fellow CHD families! :) 

    ------------------------------
    Nicole Sanchez
    Alamo CA
    (925) 487-8132
    ------------------------------



  • 5.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 03-15-2017 07:00
    Hello my name is Julie Goss from Indio, CA. My son Kayden had a heart transplant at 8 months old due to dilated cardiomyopathy.

    ❤JuLiE A. GoSs❤





  • 6.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 03-15-2017 08:09
    Hi, my name is Elizabeth and my third (of four) sons is a heart baby. I was introduced to Mended Little Hearts shortly before he was discharged after is first OHS in 2013.





  • 7.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 03-15-2017 09:17
    Hi all, I am a member in SW Ohio but we actually travel to Columbus, OH for all of my daughter's procedures. She was diagnosed with Hypoplastic Right Heart Syndrome at around 26 weeks, so we were expecting a lot of what was coming after her birth. She had a ballooning at a few weeks old to open her pulmonary valve. We spent the first month in the hospital. She had her first OHS at 7 months, in which they performed the Glenn procedure and gave her an artificial conduit. Since then, she has had 2 sessions in the Cath lab to balloon the artificial conduit back open as it had narrowed. She will need a new conduit in the next couple of years. The outlook is good so far though that she won't have to get the Fontan and can stay and 1.5 chamber kiddo. 

    ------------------------------
    Carolyn Stock
    MLH member
    ------------------------------



  • 8.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 03-15-2017 10:00
    Hello all. I am a 29 year old Aortic Stenosis survivor. I still find it incredibly odd to call myself a survivor, and am still so shocked how large of a group of people are affected by CHD either as patients or as family. With that in mind I was approached a little over a year ago to take part in an inspirational documentary following the life cycle of people with CHD. This past Monday was the world premier of "The Heart Within". Please feel free to follow the link below, and I hope you enjoy. A portion of the proceeds go towards Cincinnati Children's Hospital.

    https://vimeo.com/ondemand/theheartwithin/207935706

    Best,

    Stephen Reynolds

    ------------------------------
    Stephen Reynolds
    Villa Hills KY
    (859) 750-5632
    ------------------------------



  • 9.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 03-15-2017 14:39
    Hi!  I'm Erin.  My daughter Raygen, who will be 6 on the 23rd!!!, was born with HLHS.  She has had all 3 stage surgeries and is doing awesome heart wise.  She is non verbal and only eats from a g-tube, but she is very social and so smart.  

    ------------------------------
    Erin Due
    Onalaska, WA

    ------------------------------



  • 10.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 03-15-2017 15:11
    Hi, my name is Candida Schendel.  I am the Mended Little Heart Regional Director for the Southwest region.  I have been a part of MLH since 2007.  My son is 11 years old and has HRHS and a long history of SVT and arrhythmia.  He has had all 3 stages of surgery and currently is on medication to control the arrhythmia.  

    ------------------------------
    Candida Schendel
    Montgomery TX
    (210) 213-6140
    ------------------------------



  • 11.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 03-15-2017 15:53
    Hi there!

    My name's Annie and in 2010 our daughter, Gracie Garman, was born with HRHS.  Three open-heart surgeries later, she's doing AMAZING.  We're thankful for this journey because through it God has taught us so much about His faithfulness and care.  Just last year I published a book about Gracie's three open-heart surgeries ("Unexpected Grace: When Your Child Is Born With Half A Heart.")  I hope to get to know more of you and support you on your journey!

    Annie B. Garman
    anniebgarman.com

    ------------------------------
    Annie Garman
    Author
    Annie B Garman Publishing
    Triangle VA
    ------------------------------



  • 12.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 03-15-2017 15:23
    Hi,
    My name Siobhan and I have a 12 year old son with with HLHS.
    He is a remarkable boy and is truly living and thriving despite his CHD. We have been very blessed. He is the oldest of 4 children. I have been involved with MLH for about 6 years and I would love to answer anyone's questions.
    Siobhan

    ------------------------------
    Siobhan Pawelczyk
    Grand Island, NY.
    ------------------------------



  • 13.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 03-15-2017 16:15
    Hey there!  I'm Emily and I'm the Group Coordinator for Mended Little Hearts of Houston!  I've got a 12 year old heart healthy son and a 9 year old daughter with HRHS (Double Inlet Left Ventricle, L-TGA, VSD).  She has had 3 open heart surgeries and is doing pretty well since her Fontan in 2011!  There are always those hiccups though, and I cherish having the heart community around when I have questions or concerns.  It's great to have a sounding board of parents who know what struggles we all go through!  

    I look forward to virtually meeting all of you!  <3

    ------------------------------
    Emily Schaffhausen
    Missouri City TX
    (281) 382-5130
    ------------------------------



  • 14.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 03-15-2017 23:04
    Hello!  I'm Dara and my profession is an administrative assistant, but my passion is my son, 5 with HLHS.  He has had four surgeries - the normal three plus a bonus for sub-aortic tissue build up.  In addition to his heart, he has speech delays and some behavioral issues.  However, he can also be the absolute sweetest little boy, smart and funny. 

    I'm involved in our local chapter of Mended Little Hearts and it is a great outlet for me, knowing that I am helping others.

    I never imagined motherhood being like this, but I wouldn't trade it for the world.

    ------------------------------
    Dara McBee
    Pasadena MD
    ------------------------------



  • 15.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 03-16-2017 08:12
    Hi my name is Carmen. My son Julian Santiago is 5 months he was born it with a large Vsd and asd he also has tracheomalacia and a gtube. We live in Philadelphia but we been in the hospital in Delaware for the 5 months.



    Sent from my T-Mobile 4G LTE Device





  • 16.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 03-16-2017 17:03
    Hi!  My name is Kim. My son, Seth, is 14 years old and was born with TGA. He had the arterial switch when he was 8 days old. He has done remarkably well ever since. He is my pride and joy!!  I am the coordinator for the Mended Little Hearts of Oklahoma City group. We have been a part of MLH since early 2007 when I founded the OKC group. As well as being the mom to one awesome son and coordinator for the group, I also teach 7th grade Spanish and coach volleyball, basketball and track!!  I am a VERY busy (and often times tired) person!!  I look forward to getting to know a little more about everyone!

    My info is below of you ever need to reach me!!

    ------------------------------
    Kim Baratz
    Coordinator
    Mended Little Hearts of Oklahoma City
    Edmond, OK
    405-326-1528
    berly15@hotmail.com
    ------------------------------



  • 17.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 03-17-2017 18:32
    Hi. My son was diagnosed at my 20-week ultrasound with a CHD, which turned out to be Truncus Arteriosus.  He had surgery at 1 week old, and was home two weeks later.  He's now 2.5 years old and his next surgery is off sometime in the future. He's doing great. Our family lives in Oakland, CA and I have met a few of the other local heart families through the MLH chapter. I'm pretty freaked out and mad about what might happen to health care. I remember thinking how grateful I was that the ACA was in effect when he was born and I wasn't going to have to "worry" about things like insurance coverage for him...Happy to be connected to you all.

    ------------------------------
    Aspen Baker
    Oakland CA
    ------------------------------



  • 18.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 03-18-2017 14:35
    Hello! 
    We have a 17 month old daughter who was diagnosed during pregnancy with TOF. She had surgery 4 months after birth, in Dec 2015. We live in southern Indiana and traveled to C.S. Mott's in Ann Arbor,MI for her birth and then again for her OHS. We'll return there for her future OHS as well. We also have an angel girl, who was prenatally diagnosed with HLHS, born a month early (in 2012) and lived for 4 days, at C.S.Motts. We also have two other children, both who have had echocardiogram done given we have had two children with CHDs, and they are heart healthy! 

    ------------------------------
    Angela Groninger
    CST/Instrument Tech
    Evansville, IN
    USA
    ------------------------------



  • 19.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 03-19-2017 14:52
    Hello! I'm Margaret King and I have an 8-year old son named Kieran who has HLHS. I'm glad this forum was started! I left facebook and have been missing heart community news! Cheers!





  • 20.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 03-19-2017 15:00
    I seem to be having a hard time replying to specific threads/topics, and for some reason, unable to log in or register, but for Heartbeat Magazine topics, I'd like to see research and recommendations for liver issues after the Fontan.

    As for taking care of ourselves as heart parents, that's always a challenge. To be honest, I have heart friends and I have non-heart friends so I can "feel normal" sometime and get support and solidarity at other times. I've learned how to advocate for myself at home when I can, when it comes to breaks and rest/downtime. 










  • 21.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 03-21-2017 13:31
    Hi,

    My name is Christine Fletcher and I am pregnant with our first baby.  Last week, at my 21 week ultrasound, we found out that she has two critical congenital heart defects.  We are hoping for a clearer diagnosis, but currently, we understand that she may have a single ventricle heart and pulmonary stenosis.  I am having a hard time finding information, resources or stories that are close to what our daughter's diagnosis is.  I am frustrated by the lack of information in books and in general around CCHD and CHD.  We have a follow up appointment with our fetal cardiologist next week to take another look and to further discuss our options.  Any help you may be able to give me would be much appreciated.

    Thanks,

    ------------------------------
    Christine Fletcher
    OAKLAND CA
    ------------------------------



  • 22.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 03-21-2017 13:57
    Hi Christine, 

    Welcome to the communities. I know how you feel in this initial diagnosis period and it is scary. I'm so glad you found us and hopefully Mended Little Hearts can help support you. 
    First...congratulations on your baby! It sounds like you are still trying to figure out what the CHD is exactly but we have a lot of members whose children have a single ventricle CHD and pulmonary stenosis. 
    I'm going to reach out to a few that I am good friends with and have them jump on to give you some more advice. My son is 8 and was born with a CHD and Down syndrome. He did have open heart surgery and I can relate to the fear and need for knowledge that we first felt after his diagnosis. 
    Let us know once you find out more information and we can point you to the education about the specific defect that is accurate and sound. 
    Have a great day!

    ------------------------------
    Andrea Baer
    Grapeville PA
    (724) 396-7820
    ------------------------------



  • 23.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 03-21-2017 14:32
    Hi Christine! 
    My name is Nicole Sanchez, I'm an adult with a single ventricle (Tricuspid Atresia), so I have my left ventricle but my right one was under-developed and not functioning. I am also a coordinator with Mended Little Hearts of the Bay Area, I believe you recently registered for our group! I would be happy to talk with or meet with you, I am in Alamo so I'm close to Oakland. :) I know I'm not a parent of a child with a heart defect, but I would be happy to share my experiences with you. 

    -Nicole 

    ------------------------------
    Nicole Sanchez
    Alamo CA
    (925) 487-8132
    ------------------------------



  • 24.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 03-21-2017 15:41
    Hi, My name is Jodi Smith Lemacks, and I am a mom of a son with Double Outlet Right Ventricle (which is very similar to HLHS) who also had an intact atrial septum.  He is my third son (almost 14 now), and has had a Norwood, Glenn (both 2003) and Fontan (2006).  We live in Richmond, VA, but he had his surgeries in Philadelphia at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP).  He is now also in the Fontan Survivorship Clinic there and is in a clinical trial (the FUEL trial).  Overall, he is doing very well and plays baseball and basketball.  He was recently diagnosed with some liver disease, so that is being treated.

    ------------------------------
    Jodi Smith Lemacks
    Richmond VA
    (804) 647-3830
    ------------------------------



  • 25.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 03-21-2017 15:52
    Christine,
    My son was diagnosed at 20-weeks too.  I remember how frustrating and scary it was.  He has a single ventricle defect (called Double Outlet Right Ventricle) and he had a intact atrial septum.  That was in 2003, and I could not find anything other than a booklet (If Your Child Has a Congenital Heart Defect (now online)) by the American Heart Association.  

    I found that the best site to go to is pted.org.  That has diagrams and describes all of the different heart defects.  For a good parent resource, the MendedLittleHeartGuide (mendedlittleheartguide.org) is wonderful.  Also, the Children's Heart Foundation has a book called It's My Heart that is a very good resource for parents.  

    In California, there are several really good hospitals that do CHD surgery, and they may have info too. 

    Please feel free to call me (804-647-3830), text me, or email me (jodi.lemacks@mendedlittlehearts.org) if you have any questions or just need another mom who had a fetal diagnosis to talk to.

    Joshua is doing well now, but our journey was not easy.  Know you have a big support system here for you.
    Jodi

    ------------------------------
    Jodi Smith Lemacks
    Richmond VA
    (804) 647-3830
    ------------------------------



  • 26.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 03-22-2017 08:54
    My name is erika, i am a heart mom to Ben. He was diagnosed with HLHS and TGA at his 4 month checkup. He is now 7, almost 8, and has a pacemaker. He hasnt had the Fontan and likely wont, as there is really no benefit to him at this point. I live just south of Austin, so staying active with MLH of San Antonio has been a challenge, and it is hard to find other heart families in the area, as evwrything in central and south Texas is so spread out and the Kyle/Buda area isnt as large as the metropolitan areas. I would love to get to know other heart moms, whether you are in the area or not, it has been a long journey and we are thankful for every day!

    ------------------------------
    erika moss
    Kyle TX
    erikamoss13@gmail.com
    ------------------------------



  • 27.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 03-24-2017 08:46
    Nice to "meet" all the new parents and read your stories!!! I look forward to learning from all of you!

    ------------------------------
    Teddy
    Mom to 4, one of which has a repaired right coronary artery w/intramural course.
    Central, PA
    ------------------------------



  • 28.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 03-28-2017 12:39
    My name is Stacy and I have 2 heart babies. My first born is now 14 almost 15 and going on 30, he was born with coarctation of the aorta, pulmonary fistula and mitral valve stenosis. He was diagnosed at 12 hours old and had his first surgery at 3 days old. His 2nd surgery was 2 days before his first birthday. He currently has an enlarged ascending aorta and we are in the waiting phase to see if it reaches surgery size. He is 4mm from where it needs to be to have surgery. 
    My youngest is my other heart baby. He is 2.5 almost 3 and was born with severe AVSD. He had his surgery at 6 months old and is doing wonderful. So far, knock on wood, nothing else has come up. 
    I do have a 3rd son who is 9 almost 10, he is my heart healthy one but is high functioning autistic. I homeschool and it has been an amazing journey with these 3 little boys. The older 2 have been diagnosed ADD as well and my little one is already showing signs of it. This is a typical day in our house.


    ------------------------------
    Stacy Deitz
    Orlando, Fl
    (336) 880-1737
    ------------------------------



  • 29.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 03-28-2017 16:57
    Hi Stacey! 

    Welcome to the communites! Nice to see you. My son was born with a complete AVSD and had his surgery to repair at 11 weeks. He's doing pretty good now and his heart health is remaining steady. He will need another open heart surgey at some point but for now...we are happy. 

    Thanks for sharing a photo too! Always great to "see" other heart families. 

    ------------------------------
    Andrea Baer
    Director of Patient Advocacy
    Mended Hearts/Mended Little Hearts
    Grapeville PA
    7243967820
    Director of Patient Advocacy
    ------------------------------



  • 30.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 04-11-2017 02:55
    Hello! First time posting so I'm not sure if I'm doing it right :) My name is Sarah. I am a single mom to 2 boys, 7 & 2, my oldest is heart healthy and my youngest was diagnosed at birth with Tricuspid Atresia. He had his BT shunt at 6 days and his Glenn at 3 months. We are currently at BCH recovering from his Fontan yesterday. He's doing great and very feisty. I'm hoping they pull the intracardiac line tomorrow so I can hold him, for everyone's sake! Lol My oldest is doing a great job dealing with being away from us and my sister is planning on taking him up for a visit soon. As soon as this phase is past us I want to get into doing more either with MLH and or going back to school for social work/ child life/ nursing. Thanks!!

    ------------------------------
    Sarah DelSesto
    Warwick RI
    ------------------------------



  • 31.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 04-11-2017 09:22
    Hi Sarah! 
    Welcome to the communities. I look forward to getting to know you. I love your spirit and your desire to give back to the community once you are through the rough times. My son is 8 and had open heart surgery at 11 weeks. He is the reason that I am working in advocacy today and why I spend my time with the Mended Little Hearts and Mended Hearts community. I went back to school after he was through his surgery. 
    Let us know if you have any questions and feel free to join in the conversation!

    ------------------------------
    Andrea Baer
    Director of Patient Advocacy
    Mended Hearts/Mended Little Hearts
    Grapeville PA
    7243967820
    Director of Patient Advocacy
    ------------------------------



  • 32.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 04-12-2017 21:45
    Hello everyone,

    I am currently 29 weeks pregnant with our first child and she was diagnosed today with tricuspid atresia/HRHS.  It breaks my heart that she will have to have surgeries at such an early stage of life but I am thankful for them and trying to be hopeful that everything will be ok.

    ------------------------------
    Dianna
    MI
    ------------------------------



  • 33.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 08-01-2017 21:28
    Hi, everyone! My fiance and I were over the moon when our little girl joined our family in 2008. She was tiny, only 5.5 lbs at birth, and exhibited EVERY warning sign of CHD. Of course, we had no idea at the time that CHD was causing all of her issues. At 12 months, her ped heard a murmur. Thank God he did. Her cardio said that her condition, PAPVR, is generally not even found until children are about 7 years old. Jeanaveve had her surgery on 9/15/11, and went home six days later. Today, she is very, VERY 9, and sees her cardio annually for check-ups. She attends a four day, three night camp for CHD Warriors every summer, and is looking forward to fourth grade. :)

    ------------------------------
    Aimee Gildner
    Wellsville NY
    (585) 596-1055
    ------------------------------



  • 34.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 08-02-2017 05:18
      |   view attached
    Hello!  My name is Mary and my husband's name is Paul.  We live in Akron, Ohio.  Our heart warrior, Tobias, will be 4 months old on the 10th (he was born in April).  He was diagnosed when I was 20 weeks pregnant with Double Inlet Left Ventricle.  At birth, Tobias did not need a PA Band or a Shunt, which is a huge blessing.  He was in the NICU for 2 weeks, but not for his heart...for feeding issues because I was diabetic during my pregnancy.  Once he began to gain back his weight (he weighed 10 lbs., 4 oz. at birth), we were able to go home with an NG tube.  I'm happy to say the NG tube came out about a week after we brought Tobias home.  Tobias is developing and growing like a typical baby.  His milestones have been textbook so far, and they keep pushing his Glenn surgery back further and further.  They originally thought he would have it at 3 months old, but now we are talking 6 months (October).  He is scheduled for his heart catheterization on September 11th.  Tobias's sats remain in the low 80's (our heart center sent us home with a pulse ox machine), which for not having surgery at birth is amazing.  Thank you for letting me share Tobias's story.  He is our 5th and final baby, and this has been hard on all of us.  Our other children are our son, PJ (16), and daughters, Morgan (13), Addison (10), and Emerson (2).  Since Tobias did not need the first surgery, it is hard for me to hand him over in 2 months...especially since he acts like a typically growing baby.  Thank you for reading! ❤

    ------------------------------
    Mary
    Akron OH
    ------------------------------



  • 35.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 08-03-2017 09:24
    Hi Mary!

    Welcome to the community. Your little one is adorable. :) I love pictures of babies. Thanks for sharing. I'm glad things are going well. Hope you find a great place to share here. 

    Have a great day

    ------------------------------
    Andrea Baer
    Director of Patient Advocacy
    Mended Hearts/Mended Little Hearts
    Grapeville PA
    7243967820
    Director of Patient Advocacy
    ------------------------------



  • 36.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 08-04-2017 01:37
    Hi! 
    Angela Eilers from Orange County, CA. My heart kiddo is almost 8. She has pulmonary stenosis, 2OHS.

    ------------------------------
    Angela Eilers
    Yorba Linda CA
    (714) 660-6005
    Angela
    ------------------------------



  • 37.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 08-24-2017 15:49

    Hi fellow CHD families.  I'm Yvonne and our CHD warrior, Bryce was born with complex single ventricle, hole between upper two chambers, hole between bottom two chambers, issues with the four heart valves, transposition of the great arteries.  He was diagnosed at 18 weeks gestation and was born at 35 weeks 5 days.  He has had three heart surgeries to reroute blood flow, the BTR Shunt, The Glenn (7-12-2015) and The Fontan (7-6-2009).

    I joined this online community in 2017 and life got busy.

    Our son's first time going to Camp del Corazon was 2014 when he was in 4th grade and he came back knowing that is not the only heart kid out there.  This year will be his 4th attending Camp del Corazon for the summer of 2017!

    He knows his heart is different, my husband and I told him that his heart is different and he needs to listen to his body and rest when he feels the need. Now that he's older (turned 12 in 2016), he understands more how his complex single ventricle heart and other heart defects work.  His school has "his heart defect papers"--describes his heart, things to watch for especially dehyration, a letter from his cardiologist and info about Camp del Corazon( since he misses a few days of school to attend).

    We are blessed to be his parents and I look forward to "meeting" other CHD families here.


    **heart hugs**
    ~Yvonne 



    ------------------------------
    Yvonne, heart mom to Bryce (complex single ventricle and other CHD's, Fontan 7-6-2009)
    CA
    tiki89@sbcglobal.net
    ------------------------------



  • 38.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 04-10-2019 13:37
    Hello Everyone,
    My name is Elizabeth Howell and am so happy to find a group of moms with which to share this journey.  My daughter, Taylor Elizabeth, is 4 years old now and my family is preparing for her open heart surgery this July.  Taylor was born with a CHD - VSD that we hoped would close, but instead has created additional complications that also need to be removed.  We have kind of braced for this moment since she was born, but now that this is a reality, I'm very afraid.  We have not been strangers to the OR or the ER or the cardiologist's office.  Taylor has had two other surgeries in her life, so you'd think I'd be a little more prepared for this.  NOT!!! Open heart surgery is very different.  The warrior in me is obviously ready and my Taylor is a fighter just like her mommy.  The problem is the "unknown".

    Taylor is a very vibrant, STRONG-WILLED, little girl with so much love for life.  She is an "old soul" and most everyone who meets her says "this little girl has been here before".  As an infant, Taylor's observant eyes seemed to look right into your soul.  Throughout her life she has been so active and never wanted to miss out on anything from soccer to ballet to gymnastics.  She's curious about everything and is EXTREMELY protective of our 3 yr old son, Ethan, who she calls "her baby".  I also have a bonus daughter, Tyla who is 11.

    My husband and I are looking to this community to share insights and support as we walk this journey together.  We have a very large family and support group, but no one in our circle has walked through this the way you all have.  Any insights on what to expect before, during, after the VSD surgery as well as how you handled support for siblings.  We need help explaining this to both Taylor and our 3 yr old Ethan in a way they can understand.  Do we keep Ethan away after the surgery to reduce infection?  How do we support Taylor in this experience without stifling the natural "warrior" in her?  I'm happy to share our journey thus far as well.

    Sending virtual hugs and strong arms to my new "heart mom" community!
    Elizabeth

    ------------------------------
    Elizabeth Howell
    Atlanta, GA
    770-842-2433
    ------------------------------
    thumbnail image





  • 39.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 04-11-2019 08:14
    Hi Elizabeth,
            My daughter had open heart surgery when she was 7 months old to correct her VSD and ASD. As she has grown older she also had a leak in her heart valve that corrected itself thankfully. I understand the anxiety you feel. It was one of the hardest things I ever had to do was to hand her over to the surgeons and worry about the unknown. Her Cardiologist checked on her daily when she was in the hospital and called a few times after she went home. I called him anytime I had any concerns and he was wonderful!! Alyssa was my warrior. Recovery was not quick nor easy. I did not allow her to leave my home or visitors to see her during the weeks following her surgery because I did not want her exposed to germs. We had to be very careful of her incisions because they caused her the most discomfort. Her cardiologist did not send her home on any pain medications, so I used tylenol whenever she was uncomfortable. Kids are so smart and once they do something that causes them pain they wont do it again. She starting acting like herself again and became more active in six weeks. 
            Alyssa had a few bumps in the road over the years . She is now 22 and graduating from nursing school in May. She has told us since she was a little girl that she wanted to be a nurse and help children like her. Her story was a light for a few parents that she came across in her pediatric clinical. Even as the years have passed, You always worry and you never forget the anxiety or the fear you felt on that day you put her in the hands of the surgeon.

         I wish your daughter and your family the best. Trust in your surgeon and your cardiologist!!!

    ------------------------------
    Peggy McDonald
    Eden NY
    (716) 992-4329
    ------------------------------



  • 40.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 04-12-2019 09:01
    I am a 50yr old with TOF. Having had open heart surgeries but when I was little and as an adult I thought it would be helpful to give a voice to the little warriors.  After surgery I always find it less painful to sleep on an incline.  Not only is it more comfortable, it causes much less pain when you get up.  Getting up feels like a 1000 bandgs being ripped at once to start and gets fewer each day and the more you move around.  Actually the more I moved around after despite the discomfort, the quicker I was able to move around with less pain.  Also holding a firm pillow when you go from laying or inclined to upright also dulled pain.  As for pain meds, I noticed if I had something on board starting late evening, I could sleep better.  I didn't wake myself from pain when I moved around.   
           To help my body heal ASAP I asked a nutritionist.  Their suggestion was good fresh fruit to aid in soft tissue repair and good bread to help cartilage.

    Hope this helps,
    Robin

    ------------------------------
    Robin Davis
    Madison OH
    (440) 428-2562
    (216) 905-1514
    ------------------------------



  • 41.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 04-12-2019 09:51
    Hi Elizabeth,

    Congratulations on the privilege of being a heart mama! My 10 year old daughter is my heart hero. She was born with half a heart and has thrived through 5 heart surgeries and many hospitalizations. It has been my privilege to grow with her in the  heart community. Its not an easy journey but it has brought so much good into our lives. 

    It's wonderful that you are reaching out and have time to prepare for her surgery this summer. I am a planner, and have had too much experience in this area. So below are many things that helped me and that I've learned over the years. It may be too much for what you need or want but hopefully you find some if it helpful. 

    You mentioned having a large support in family and community. This is wonderful! Everyone wants to help, support and feel they contributed to your time of need. However, I absolutely agree with Peggy that keeping people physically away is best for your daughter. 

    I found, over the course of 5 open heart surgeries, that setting tasks before the surgery worked very well. I found these things allowed for my support system to be involved and connected while providing me the space needed to focus on providing snuggle time and calm, quiet recovery for my daughter.

    For example, 
    1. I asked a group of friends to arrange and DROP of meals for my family for a week. 
    2. I asked my mommy group to have their children create a "wall of wellness" for my daughter. This was AWESOME for my girl. (Picture Below). She felt so special! 
    3. I kept a daily blog specifically and only for the surgery so people could get updates without me calling, texting or feeling like I had to Facebook reply all day long. 
    4. I had family and friends pre-record little songs or story times that I loaded on her iPad so she could see her people anytime she wanted. 
    5. The day before discharge I had her Aunt set up a (very small and simple) welcome home table with prizes and balloons. (Picture below) 
    5. Once we were home, I allowed FaceTime visitors for 10-15 minutes a day. This was usually grandma time:) 

    As far as your son, most hospitals have a great ChildLife program. Please contact your facility to see if this is available. They are fantastic! They provide support to the patient as well as their siblings. They will take them on tours, show them the hospital, talk to them about their procedure, bring treats snacks and prizes to their room - for the patient and any sibling that is visiting. It actually gives them something to look forward to together. 

    Another great resource for keeping your family together during this time is the Ronald McDonald House. I cannot tell you what a great support this was for my family. They provide a place for you to stay close to, or on the hospital campus so that you, your husband, your son and your older daughter can be close to the hospital but not have to be in the hospital all the time. The house provides bedrooms, living space, laundry, playrooms and a kitchen. They have groups that come in to provide meals and treats. They give families blankets, gift cards, toys, prizes. It is also a place to connect with other families who are in the hospital at the same time is you. If your area has this resource I would definitely suggest contacting a social worker to see if this is something you can take advantage of. It is not income-based, it is medically based and a great connection for all people walking through these things.

    As far as approaching "the subject" with your children, here are 2 books that I found helpful. The first is more for the parent and older children. The second is definitely for your young son and daughter to understand heart surgery. 


    I did a few things to personalize her hospital room stays too. 
    1. We made custom hospital gowns out of fabric designs she picked out (pictures below) She loved her "heart jams". Here are resources that will make them for you. 
    2. I bought Wallies and put them up in her hospital room so she woke up surrounded by fun friends. (They won't allow them in icu but the regular floor typically will.) https://www.amazon.com/Roommates-Rmk2199Scs-Disney-Princess-Decals/dp/B00D1QDS3Q?ref_=bl_dp_s_mw_2599803011
    3. I created a "This is me" poster and hung it above her bed or on the door. I can't tell you the awesome connection this was with nurses, doctors and hospital staff. They were all very interested to see her pictures and story and it provided a sweet personal connection. They would all call her by her nickname or talk about her pictures. (Picture below) 

    I wish you all the best in this journey. I am sure that your daughter is going to superhero her way right through this.

    You got this!!

    Stacey Coupe 
    Washington, D.C. 

    image1.jpeg
    image4.jpeg
    image3.jpeg
    image3.jpeg
    image1.jpegimage1.jpeg






  • 42.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 04-13-2019 11:06
    Elizabeth and Stacey,
        First, what a cuties! I am a child care teacher and have a joyful time with  kids' curious minds, enthusiasm and sense of fun.
        Although I am a male, I AM a survivor of three open heart surgeries, the first when I was 9 years old, in 1968. (All but a few dinosaurs were gone). When it comes to open heart surgery, I believe gender does not discriminate; we all go through the angst, worry, and recovery situations pretty similarly.
        Elizabeth, back in 1968, surgery for one so young was something eager cardiologists could only dream about. I was born with an aortic stenosis in 1957, and my chances for survival at nine were 50/50. I am certainly not mentioning this for frights, in fact I applaud the amazing leaps and bounds that cardiac surgery has made in ten, twenty, and on and on! 
        In fact, in 1976, just eight years later, I was able to receive a prosthetic aortic heart valve, that is still going strong after 40
    years!
        I love having joined this site. It feels therapeutic, and I feel I can "give back" to parents, adults and patients some hope and perspectives.
        I think the only real discomfort after all these surgeries was the chest pain from the sternum; not everyday your sternum gets opened, yet today many cardiac procedures involve that. And wow, did my chest itch!
        Elizabeth has given great "mommy" advise for you and your child! Thanks Elizabeth!

        As far as the worry and fright for your young warriors, it a normal human response to all the unknowns, and I believe makes us warriors as well. My parents, god bless them, were always with me, and that was a gigantic help. Aunts, Uncles,and other relatives came to visit me with  cards, humor and support for both me and my parents. One uncle even had the New York Mets autograph a baseball for me, a year before they won the World Series!
        
       I am not sure if therapy animals are allowed after surgery, but that's another idea.
       Back then, way back then, parents were not allowed to stay overnight with their kids....THAT was scary for me. I felt alone and scared as a youngster.
        Elizabeth, may I propose that this upcoming surgery can become another, amazing adventure for both warriors? Maybe have picture books to show all your kids what the body does, thats amazing too. Blood, bones the heart, and maybe show what will be done to help your 
         daughter see, in her own way. Knowledge is power, and this curious kiddo can really help the family all be a part of this event. 
    Please stay in touch, I am eager also to share the event during the summer. Remember, out of fear, comes courage.


     So glad you are all getting the support you need. 

    Ken Levine
    Middlebury, Vermont
    802-236-8186




    ------------------------------
    ken levine
    volunteer, retired
    802-236-8186
    kenpaullevine@gmail.com
    Middlebury, Vermont
    05753
    United States of America
    ------------------------------



  • 43.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 04-21-2019 16:13
    Dear Ken,
    Yes!  This is great advice!  I started buying puzzles displaying the body a few years ago to introduce how our body works.  I've been so afraid of the possibility of surgery that I purposely didn't broach the subject.  Now that it is a reality, it is time to have that talk.  Thanks for sharing your strength and story with us.

    ------------------------------
    Elizabeth Howell, MBA
    Business & Technology Consultant
    Atlanta, GA
    770-842-2433
    ------------------------------



  • 44.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 04-21-2019 16:07
    Dear Stacey,
    Thank you so much for sharing your journey with your beautiful daughter.  How helpful this is to our family.  We've already begun scheduling "decorate" parties for Taylor's friends and cousins who want to make posters for Taylor's hospital room.  We're also creating a "movie" compiling videos of her favorite people wishing her well and looking into many of the suggestions you provided.

    My colleagues at work created a space for our family on the MealTrain website that will be used to facilitate communication to everyone wanting to stay updated on Taylor's surgery and progress.  The site allows for meal scheduling, baby sitting for Ethan, donations of gift cards from many grocery stores and relevant retailers.  I love that people can decide for themselves how they'd like to support.  I also love that we can create one update that will be distributed to all our friends and family.  Will help me not have to personally call or message everyone before and after the surgery.  I highly recommend this site for families out there also preparing for surgery.
    Thanks for the heads up on the recliner.  We are ordering an adjustable bed frame for her.

    You all can't know how grateful I am for all your stories and insights.  I'm sending you and your family all the strength and love you can stand!!!

    ------------------------------
    Elizabeth Howell, MBA
    Business & Technology Consultant
    Atlanta, GA
    770-842-2433
    ------------------------------



  • 45.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 04-21-2019 15:44
    Dear Peggy,
    First, I'm sending hugs to you and your daughter Alyssa.  Thanks for sharing your experience with me.  It's helpful to read the success stories and stay reminded that there so many victorious heart warriors out there living beautiful lives.

    ------------------------------
    Elizabeth Howell, MBA
    Business & Technology Consultant
    Atlanta, GA
    770-842-2433
    ------------------------------



  • 46.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 04-14-2019 18:10
      |   view attached
    Hi all. My name is Ashley. My son Christian was born on 3/13/19 and diagnosed with Tetralogy of Fallot with VSD 2 weeks ago on 4/1/19. He has his next appointment tomorrow morning. As of 4/1 we were looking at him having open heart surgery in June to correct the defects. 

    My husband and I have been married since May 2018 and live in Evans GA near Augusta. I have 2 children from a previous marriage. I am a stay At home mom and my husband is an Electrician.

    ------------------------------
    Ashley Bailey
    Mom to Christian (born 3/13/19 with Tetralogy of Fallot)
    Evans, GA
    ------------------------------



  • 47.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 04-14-2019 21:20
    Welcome!
    I am a Tetralogy of Fallot born 5/19/1968.

    I am confident you will appreciate this group.

    Take care,

    ------------------------------
    Robin Davis
    Madison OH
    (440) 428-2562
    (216) 905-1514
    ------------------------------



  • 48.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 04-15-2019 09:02
    Welcome Ashley!

    Your son is adorable! What a sweet blessing. Welcome to the community. My son is 10 now and had his open heart surgery at 11 weeks old for an AVSD. He's doing fabulous now. I am the community manager here so if you need anything, please reach out! 

    We are just beginning to establish a new Mended Hearts and Mended Little Hearts chapter in Augusta, GA! How exciting you are close.

    ------------------------------
    Andrea Baer
    Grapeville PA
    (724) 396-7820
    ------------------------------



  • 49.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 06-06-2019 12:36
    Hi Ashley!

    What a beautiful son you have! I am 24 weeks pregnant with our first child, a boy. We just recently found out that he has Tetralogy of Fallot like your sweet little guy. I invited you to be a contact as I would love to learn more about your family's story.

    Lora Sweeney
    TOF mom to be 
    Orlando, FL

    ------------------------------
    Lora Sweeney
    Orlando FL
    ------------------------------



  • 50.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 05-15-2019 08:33
    Hi!  My name is Jennifer Matthies and am located in New Jersey.  My son Matthew was born with aortic stenosis and pulmonary stenosis.  He had open heart surgery at 11 weeks old and 8 caths since.  His last cath was in 2012, but he will be going for one this summer at CHOP.   He is now 14 and doing well.  He sees his cardiologist here in our hometown every 8 months.    Hope to connect with other CHD parents.


    ------------------------------
    Jennifer Matthies
    Child Study Team Secretary
    Freehold Township School District
    Middletown NJ
    ------------------------------



  • 51.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 05-15-2019 16:36
    Hi! My name is Gretchen Foltz and I had a mitral valve replacement in 1982 at the age of 9. I am excited to be part of the Mended Little Hearts community and am looking forward to the opportunity to volunteer and help in any way that I can for the newly formed Mended Little Hearts of Connecticut group.

    Thank you all for sharing your stories!


    ------------------------------
    Gretchen Foltz
    Middletown CT
    ------------------------------



  • 52.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 06-06-2019 12:41
    Hello!

    My name is Lora Sweeney, and I am 24 weeks pregnant with our first child, a boy, who was recently diagnosed with Tetralogy of Fallot. I have already found a lot of comfort in talking with other heart families about their journeys. I am trying to use this time before our son is born to educate myself as much as possible on TOF and what to expect. 

    Lora Sweeney
    Orlando, FL

    ------------------------------
    Lora Sweeney
    Orlando FL
    ------------------------------



  • 53.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 06-08-2019 09:32
    My son is 23rd old and was born with TOF.  You can always message me if you want.

    ------------------------------
    Randi Lehman
    Syosset NY
    (516) 496-1025
    ------------------------------



  • 54.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 06-08-2019 09:35
    oops I meant to say email me at ranroo@aol.com

    ------------------------------
    Randi Lehman
    Syosset NY
    (516) 496-1025
    ------------------------------



  • 55.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 06-24-2019 18:02
    Hello,

    My name is Monica Oliver and I work at the University of North Carolina Hospital in Chapel Hill, NC. I am a new heart mom to a baby boy named Legend who is 3 months old diagnosed with AVSD, TAPVR, and Dextrocardia. Apparently it's super rare to have all three conditions together. I have to agree with a lot of parents on this page that it's hard to find information on congenital heart diseases, let alone a super rare combination. I can say we went home after a week in the NICU after birth and our baby and has hit all the milestones according to books and the internet. He just had his first of the three surgeries - the pulmonary artery band placement and is finally home after 3 weeks in the hospital. He is currently feeding bottle and NG tube until he can tolerate his full feed by mouth. Our docs are putting him through a Single Ventricle route with the next surgery is estimated to happen in 3-6 months called the Glenn plus* (since they have to do the Glenn and replumbing of additional veins). I look forward to joining this community and meeting parents of these amazing children. I could always use some encouraging words or I love hearing about success stories! I pray that our little one continues to fight and overcome this obstacle. 

    Monica Oliver
    Durham, NC
    919-455-5015

    ------------------------------
    Monica Oliver
    Durham NC
    ------------------------------



  • 56.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 06-27-2019 18:54
    Hi I'm Richard, I had a ventricular septal defect repaired in Denver, Colorado in1960. I belonged to mended hearts and attended a party and attended making crafts. I'm now 67 years old and had a radio frequency heart ablation last September. I think I need to join the Denver, Colorado chapter for adults. I've had trouble doing that as I'm using my phone. I believe my chapter is 047 at Porters Hospital in Denver where I was born. Any help with this I would appreciate. Respectively---- Richard

    ------------------------------
    Richard Danks
    Evergreen
    ------------------------------



  • 57.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 07-16-2019 17:37
    Hi! I'm Sheri. I am helping to raise my four month old granddaughter Isabella, she has a VSD, ASD and pulmonary stenosis as well as a few other health issues and her 1 1/2 yr old brother. I am looking forward to connecting with people and learning more as we begin this health journey with Isabella.

    ------------------------------
    Sheri Shumaker
    Edenton NC
    ------------------------------



  • 58.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 07-23-2019 08:06
    I don't know if I did this right, but My name is Sara Whitaker, I live in Bogata, Tx. I am 38 weeks Pregnant with a little boy who was diagnosed with HLHS 15 weeks ago. 
    My C-Section is scheduled for this coming Thursday (7-25-2019) My baby will have his surgery at Children's Medical Center in Dallas, Tx.

    ------------------------------
    Sara Whitaker
    Homemaker
    TX
    ------------------------------



  • 59.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 07-24-2019 22:51
    Hi Sara!
    My name is Lindsey. I have a 4 year old son named James. He was born with HLHS and had both his Norwood (8 days old) and Glenn (5 months old) at Dallas Children's Medical Center. We had a wonderful experience there and such a caring and supportive staff. I just wanted to let you know that you will be in mine and my families thoughts tomorrow. If you ever need someone to talk to, my number is (318) 680-4672. Congratulations on your new little one!

    ------------------------------
    Lindsey Persson
    Roanoke TX
    ------------------------------



  • 60.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 10-01-2019 15:46
    So happy I came across this page!

    My name is Chiara Cummings and our little girl Harper was born April 9, 2019. HRHS - pulmonary atresia with intact ventricular septum. We found out at my twenty week anatomy ultrasound and needless to say our lives were turned upside down. She is now almost 6 months old and is the center of our universe. She had BT shunt placed at 8 days old and it set to have the Glenn on October 23, 2019 at NYU.

    Her weight gain has been pretty good, she has almost doubled her birth weight. We struggle quite a bit with feeding thought and rely heavily on the ng tube. Would love if anyone in this community could offer any advice or tips with feeding (or put us in contact with someone who might). We have seen a GI doctor and think she might be lactose intolerant so she is now on soy formula. Some feeds she does well but for the most part she struggles. She either tires or is not interested. Sometimes she will become very agitated at the sight of the bottle so we are being very careful to not create bottle aversion. We would love any advice from other CHD families out there who may have experienced the same thing. Did it improve post-Glenn? Any advice welcomed. Thank you and looking forward to connecting.

    ------------------------------
    Chiara Cummings
    NEW YORK NY
    ------------------------------



  • 61.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 10-01-2019 15:56
    Hi Chiara, 

    Welcome to our community! Mended Little Hearts is actually writing a whole guide to feeding issues in children with CHD right now! I would be happy to connect you to some great people who could help out with some tips and advice. A lot of our CHD ids struggle with feeding issues. You are not alone in that for sure. 

    Email me if you would like and I'll be able to connect you and share some resources with you. andrea.baer@mendedhearts.org 

    I'm glad your little one is doing good. My son, who was born with a complete AVSD and some other issues is 10 now! He's thriving and the light of our lives. 

    Welcome again!


    ------------------------------
    Andrea Baer
    Grapeville PA
    (724) 396-7820
    ------------------------------



  • 62.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 10-02-2019 09:52
    Hi Andrea, would you be willing to send me the feeding resources as well? I'm currently providing parent support to a family who is dealing with the same questions and issues, and it's been over a decade since my own child was born. I can't wait till the mended little hearts resource comes out for this. This is an issue that comes up over and over again for our local families, and it seems like there is so little support and information on feeding issues for heart kids and CHD families, and yet the impact it has on the family is huge.






  • 63.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 10-08-2019 01:59
    Hi everyone!  I haven't done this before so I hope I'm doing it right.  My name is Beth.  My daughter, Adeline, is 5 months old and has HLHS (hypoplastic left heart syndrome).  She had her Glenn procedure almost a month ago and is doing very well.  However, since the surgery, her demeanor and behavior have been different than before surgery.  She cries more and is much more irritable now.  I can't figure out why.  The doctors say a headache could be the cause, but she doesn't seem to be in pain.  They didnt have any other ideas.  We tried pain medicines just in case, but they didn't affect the situation.  The change wasn't gradual - as soon as she was alert again after surgery, the difference was there.  Has anyone else had this experience or have any tips or advice?

    ------------------------------
    Beth Mck
    VA
    ------------------------------



  • 64.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 10-09-2019 02:29
    Hi, Beth,

    I know your daughter is really young, but I wonder if it is possible that she is responding to the trauma of the surgery?  First, she had the physical trauma experience, and then, perhaps, the emotional trauma (her own emotions, picking up on the emergency atmosphere around her - alarms, lights, etc).  My son has a different chd than your daughter's, but he had very strong reactions to loud noises (i.e., fire alarms) and has had a preoccupation with medical/physical emergencies for years.  I do believe it is possible for infants to experience PTSD from their experiences - it just looks different from the PTSD of adults or older children.  After our son's second surgery he was very clingy, cried when I left the room, was irritable, sad.  There are psychologists who work with infants.  We didn't go that route because I am a psychologist.  We did do some cranial-sacral therapy.  I'm not sure how helpful that was, to be honest.  He's done quite a bit of play therapy, however.  It is a lot for our kiddos to process, particularly when it happens before they're verbal.

    I hope this is helpful,
    Marcy

    ------------------------------
    Marcy de Araujo
    CA
    (650) 815-9036
    ------------------------------



  • 65.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 10-09-2019 08:51

          Being TOF and now 51 I can say I have been through many heart surgeries.  I can't remember how I behaved after back then.  However, I can tell you as an adult.  After surgery I have noticed my memory is not as good sometimes it is words I can remember and many times it's names or faces.  Some tasks feel a little foreign. The good news is every time things come back.  Tasks quickly, names and faces a little slower it steadily improve as my strength does.   I would imagine the same thing happened as I was little.  Be patient with us warriors, we notice your worries.  We warriors are resilient and will bounce back in time.  I understand the worrying as I am a parent myself and recognize as a Warrior I had an easier job.

    Take care,

    Robin Davis

    216-905-1514. 

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  • 66.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 10-09-2019 09:51
    I Completely agree Marcy. My daughter had open heart surgery at 7 months old. She was traumatized by her mobile that was over her crib the first time we put her back in her crib. We thought she associated it with the lights above her in the hospital. Even after removing the mobile from her crib she was still having a hard time sleeping in her crib. She too was very clingy and was very irritable at any check up after her surgery which was not the case before her surgery. We believe it was anxiety from her surgical experience as well.

    --
    Peggy McDonald

     
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  • 67.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 10-10-2019 09:13

    You should look into Cardiac Neurodevelopment Programs for services.  There is a ton of research on this and resources available.   


    http://www.childrenshospital.org/Centers-and-Services/Programs/A-_-E/cardiac-neurodevelopmental-program

    http://cardiacneuro.org



    ------------------------------
    Susan Curtin
    Westwood MA

    ------------------------------



  • 68.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 10-10-2019 23:33
    I've noticed the same thing with my daughter at check ups!  All the nurses or doctors have to do now is enter the room and she starts crying.  I didn't realize such young babies could respond this way.

    ------------------------------
    Beth Mck
    VA
    ------------------------------



  • 69.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 10-11-2019 19:04
    Agreed our son cried when the vet tech for the dog walked into the room the other day. He was fine until the tech came in then all hell broke lose. He is the same at his doctor appointments. So hard to seem them like that.

    ------------------------------
    Audrey Laffan
    Phoenix AZ
    4802351464
    ------------------------------



  • 70.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 10-12-2019 18:34
    Hi, I'm not too surprised to hear about this being afraid. Children who have gone through heart procedures can act this way because I know I did and still do. Children may perceive things differently than adults by not being mature but from my own experience it didn't make a difference. I have PTSD from heart surgery and I really would like to know what can be done to keep this from happening. Have the medical professionals figured it out?
    I have lived with it for 67 years. What can be done. This turned my life sideways and we desperately need to be able to stop this from happening.

    ------------------------------
    Richard Danks
    Evergreen, Colorado
    ------------------------------



  • 71.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 10-10-2019 23:21
    Hi Marcy!  Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts on this.  I was so focused on the physical aspects, I forgot to give the mental aspects much consideration.  Since the pain medications didn't have much effect, I think you could be right.  How long did it take for your son to recover and be less upset?  Besides the usual soothing, is there anything special I can do to help Adeline?

    ------------------------------
    Beth Mck
    VA
    ------------------------------



  • 72.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 10-14-2019 01:21
    Hi, Beth,

    To be honest, my son is 10 and still has medical anxiety, Beth.  His most acute symptoms abated probably within a few months.  I spent a lot of time snuggling and talking with him, reassuring him that I was going to be with him.  One thing I noticed that really helped was his playing out his medical anxieties.  I know your daughter is very young, so this won't apply right now, but I'd be sure to have books and toys related to going to the hospital.  There are books by Fred Rogers (Mr. Rogers), with Sesame characters, and other kids' characters all about going to the hospital.  I also bought a book called Patch which is about a lion with a chd written by a woman in Australia.  Playmobil has an awesome hospital that my son has used to play out some of his experiences.  For years he played with various ambulances.  We also have a kids' toy medical kit with some of the real masks he used for anesthesia at the hospital (they let him put stickers on before they put him to sleep) and a real stethoscope, plus the toys that came with the kit.  Even when he didn't have access to hospital-specific toys, he's make his own scenarios with tape and playmobil people - wrapping them in tape and making up stories about how they'd gotten hurt.  Nowadays, he often wants to hang out at the hospital after he's had an appointment - we'll have lunch in the cafeteria, go an explore different floors, take a ride in one of the red wagons, or play outside in one of the gardens.  I think it helps him just to have some more positive experiences there, and, quite frankly, he's spent a lot of time there, so in an odd way, it probably feels like home.  Anyway, I'd probably read some of those books to your daughter, and talk to her about what she went through - she is little, but hearing you talk about it will eventually sink in.  Let her cry, too, and let yourself.  You've both been through a lot.  I hope this helps, Beth.  -Marcy

    ------------------------------
    Marcy de Araujo
    CA
    (650) 815-9036
    ------------------------------



  • 73.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 10-11-2019 15:31
    Hi there!

    My name is James Calligan, my wife's name is Gina, we live in Phoenix, AZ. 
    Our unborn baby was diagnosed with HLHS about a month ago. 

    It has been quite the journey the past 30 days or so... trying to fast track educate ourselves with CHD/HLHS, seeing where we can get involved, preparing for January (when the baby is due), etc. 

    I look forward and appreciate the support of MLH, and connecting with some of you who are/have gone through similar paths. 

    Thanks, 
    James

    ------------------------------
    James Calligan
    Director of Operations
    Arizona Gynecology Consultants
    Phoenix AZ
    ------------------------------



  • 74.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 10-24-2019 22:49
      |   view attached
    Hi! My name is Alyssa. I'm a Mom of a healthy (wild) 2.5 year old and a 4 month old heart baby.

    My heart baby's story is a bit atypical, as she doesn't have a CHD. She suffered a myocardial infarction (heart attack) of her left coronary arteries immediately after delivery. We still have no evidence of what caused it, though the theory is that it came from the umbilical cord. She is now recovered and thriving, but I am eager to connect with anyone who may have experienced something similar, as I've been told it's quite unusual. Sending love out to all you and your brave kiddos!

    ------------------------------
    Alyssa DeGraff
    San Diego CA
    ------------------------------



  • 75.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 01-25-2020 20:35
    Hi all!

    My name is Tracie Frank Mayer and I'm thrilled to be a member of this group of heart warriors.

    My son Marc was born with a single atrium and single right ventricle, mitral atresia and pulmonary atresia; basically only half of his heart as well as with heterotaxy syndrome whereby the internal organs are arranged on the wrong side of the body. 

    I am the author of an award-winning book (see my bio) about the fight for my son's life in a foreign country. Today my baby is 35 years old. I am an inspirational/motivational speaker; advocate and volunteer for CHD.  

    You can always reach me at mail@traciemayer.com.

    Blessings, everyone.

    ------------------------------
    Tracie Mayer
    Koeln
    ------------------------------



  • 76.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 03-29-2021 10:40
    Hi!
    My daughter had OHS at 7 weeks for ASD/VSD repair and has a post op arrhythmia managed by medications. Would love other parents with similar experiences to reach out. It's only been a few months since surgery and I still have anxiety.
    Kat Palmore
    Baltimore, MD

    ------------------------------
    Katrina Palmore
    Baltimore MD
    ------------------------------



  • 77.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 03-29-2021 10:43
    Hi Katrina, 

    Welcome to the group! My son had an AVSD/VSD repair at 11 weeks old so I know the fears and struggles. He's 12 now and is doing great, however I still feel the anxiety on occasion that came with the new diagnosis and surgery. We have a lot of parents from the Baltimore area so maybe we can connect you! I don't have experience with the post op arrhythmias but I'm sure there are some who do. I believe that's a common experience. 

    Welcome!

    ------------------------------
    Andrea Baer
    Grapeville PA
    (724) 396-7820
    ------------------------------



  • 78.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 03-29-2021 11:19
    I am a 53yr old TOF so I have had my share of surgeries over the years.  Many of the I experienced post op arythmias.  Things eventually go back to normal.  It is amazing the things they can fix so young now.  The repair you went through they use to wait until about 2yrs when your heart was bigger.
         I know it is scary as parents of heart warriors.  Remember we are tough and for as young as they are going through all this, we don't remember this as scary or hard.

    ------------------------------
    Robin Davis
    Madison OH
    (440) 428-2562
    (216) 905-1514
    ------------------------------



  • 79.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 03-29-2021 13:00
    Hi Katrina,
    My daughter also had an ASD/VSD repair done when she was 7 months old. She had a residual leak out of her patch that was placed in the VSD that finally repaired itself as she has grown.. I completely understand your anxiety. I wish I could say it would just go away.. but a mother always worries about her baby. My daughter had a few bumps in the road but she is now 24 years old. She played sports in highschool, attended a four year nursing program and is now a nurse working with stroke/neuro patients . She originally was going to be a pediatric nurse so she could share her story and help ease the fears that parents are engulfed in , but she now shares her story with her adult patients having their own anxiety. She is healthy and happy and has lived the past 24 years with only a couple minor issues they monitored early on. 
    I wish you and your daughter the best. It will get easier!!

    --
    Peggy McDonald
    Wee Can Preschool & Childcare 
    716-667-2294 Extension 10
     
    CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: This message is confidential, intended only for the
    named recipient(s) and may contain information that is privileged, or
    exempt from disclosure under applicable law. If you are not the intended
    recipient(s), you are notified that the dissemination, distribution or
    copying of this message is strictly prohibited. If you receive this message
    in error, or are not the named recipient(s), please notify the sender by
    reply e-mail, delete this e-mail from your computer, and destroy any copies
    in any form immediately. Receipt by anyone other than the named recipient
    (s) is not a waiver of any attorney-client, work product, or other
    applicable privilege. This message and all contents may be reviewed by
    authorized parties of Wee Can Preschool other than those named in
    the message header.





  • 80.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 05-10-2021 14:17
    Hi there,

    My name is Marcy.  I have an 11.5 year old living with Truncus Arteriosus.  We've been living in the Santa Cruz Mountains since he was 2.  We are making a big move to the Boston area this summer as he has various special needs and the public schools there are much stronger.  We are hoping there is at least one MLH group out in our area for us to connect with.  Our son also has autism and really, really wants to make some friends.  Anyone have any suggestions or live near Franklin, MA?  He is very anxious about the transition.

    Lastly, does anyone have any experience with Boston Children's or Mass General?  Our son will be due for a valve replacement in the next year or two.

    Thank you!

    ------------------------------
    Marcy de Araujo
    CA
    (650) 815-9036
    ------------------------------



  • 81.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 08-27-2021 19:47
    Hi, I am so grateful to have found this group online. Not sure if I found the right community? I have a descending aortic aneurysm, 4.0m. Going for a Cat scan this week. I find the process overwhelming and am glad to find a place to learn more about my problem. I am having pain in my chest and throat and I'm wondering if others have experienced this type of symptom? My doctor is reccommending "watchful waiting". I recently turned 70. I'm in good health, never smokerd and have always been active, I walk, kayak and excercise. I would like to read about other's suggestions and experiences with this heart issue. Also suggestions for which community I should join, please.
    Thank you,

    Louise Costello


    ------------------------------
    Louise Costello
    Real Estate Broker
    Sunny Hill Real Estate
    Wolcott CT
    ------------------------------



  • 82.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 08-30-2021 20:13

    Hi!! Welcome to the community. I'm so glad you found us. We have lots of great people here with experience. I suggest you post in the Mended Hearts open forum because it's the most active with adults who have the experience you are looking for. 

    mom a mom to a child with a congenital heart defect so I don't have personal experience, but I wanted to say welcome!!



    ------------------------------
    Andrea Baer
    Grapeville PA
    (724) 396-7820
    ------------------------------



  • 83.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 01-21-2022 15:06
    I am a 74 year old male who was born with a congenital heart defect known as an IVSD. At the age of 13 I received an IVSD repair performed at Wilford Hall hospital on Lackland Air Force Base Kansas. After a near fatal post op infection I survived and lived on to enjoy a successful aviation career and currently live a very active life here in Melbourne Beach Florida.
         I spent 10 years as a hospital volunteer, working mostly in the ER at Holmes Regional Medical Center here in Melbourne Florida. I am interested in the Mended Hearts Organization as possibly a volunteer to give support to young people and their families here in my area. 
          Please give my email to whoever is responsible within my area that will allow me to possibly be of assistance.

          Sherman F. Childers
          sfc3bc@gmail.com

    ------------------------------
    Sherman F. Childers
    Retired
    S. Melbourne Beach FL
    ------------------------------



  • 84.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 01-21-2022 15:17
    Hi Sherman,
    Thank you for your interest in volunteering for The Mended Hearts, Inc. There is a local chapter around you! I have passed along the information to the chapter president. In the meantime, you can join Mended Hearts for a free associate membership (at the local level or the national level) and receive the newsletter providing opportunities from National. Your local chapter may have other opportunities available. 

    Thank you,
    Leslie Brown


    ------------------------------
    Leslie Brown
    Executive Assistant
    The Mended Hearts, Inc.
    Greensburg
    ------------------------------



  • 85.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 01-22-2022 13:40
    Leslie,
         Thank you very much for your response. We do have a chapter here in Melbourne Florida however I have tried to contact any staff/members in this chapter with no response. Their website lists 0 for number of members, activities, news etc. I will keep trying as I sincerely would like to meet with patients, parent's, family's etc as I am a long time survivor of OHS at a young age and vividly remember not only what I went through but also what my mother, father, sisters and brother went through in supporting me during my surgery and recovery. I would sincerely like to share with other family's, my story with the hope of helping them understand and be more at ease with what they will be going through.   ❤️

    Sherm ����





  • 86.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 01-24-2022 12:59
    Hi Sherman,
    I sent you an email directly providing some information and opportunities I believe you may be interested in. Thank you! 

    Leslie

    ------------------------------
    Leslie Brown
    Executive Assistant
    The Mended Hearts, Inc.
    Greensburg
    ------------------------------



  • 87.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 09-22-2022 14:36
    Hi! My name is Aimee and I'm mom to Jeanaveve who was diagnosed with PAPVR at 12 months, had OHS at 3 years, and is now 14. I just became a nurse, and look forward to helping others on their heart journeys.

    ------------------------------
    Aimee Davison
    LPN
    Wellsville NY
    ------------------------------



  • 88.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 09-26-2022 13:04
    Hi Aimee, thanks for reaching out and for your interest in Mended Little Hearts. Although we don't have a MLH group close to you, you can still support other families virtually as a virtual visitor. If you would like to find out more, please email me at mandy.sandkuhler@mendedhearts.org

    Thanks!

    ------------------------------
    Mandy Sandkuhler
    Alpharetta GA
    (469) 888-3400
    ------------------------------



  • 89.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 09-27-2022 08:12
      |   view attached
    Hi:

    My name is Dr. George Kipel. I am a pediatric cardiologist based in Hackensack NJ. I would like to commend you all for the strength and compassion that drives you on a daily basis to advocate for your family members and others on this challenging journey.  You are an inspiration to us all! I  am the medical director for Hope with Heart Camp which is a medically supervised sleep away camp for children aged 7-17 with moderate to severe congenital or acquired heart disease. The camp takes place in northwest NJ in August. The camp is free for all campers as we are a 501c and do all the fundraising.  The camp is all about building self confidence and bonding with other children on a similar journey ( they are not the only one with a zipper on their chest)! Our brochure is enclosed. Please feel free to call or email me about the camp or any questions you may have about chd. We hope  to see you at camp!

    ------------------------------
    Dr. George Kipel MD FACC FAAP
    Pediatric Cardiologist
    Hackensack U Medical Center
    Point Pleasant Beach NJ
    201 741-0683
    glkipel@gmail.com
    ------------------------------

    Attachment(s)

    pdf
    20155l1d_brochure.pdf   3.13 MB 1 version


  • 90.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 12-05-2022 08:07


    ------------------------------



  • 91.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 12-06-2022 11:11
    Hi Melinda,

    Thank you for reaching out. We have a Mended Little Hearts group in San Diego that I can connect you with, and I can also try and connect you through our parent match program. I am going to send you an email right now. 

    Thanks!
    Mandy Sandkuhler

    ------------------------------
    Mandy Sandkuhler
    Alpharetta GA
    (469) 888-3400
    ------------------------------



  • 92.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 12-12-2022 07:20
    Hi I'm Alicia,  my 8 month old son was born with transverse of the great vessels (TGA) hes had 2 balloon plasty and open heart surgery and we are facing another open heart surgery for narrowing of the pulmonary arteries.  
      Any advice or support is appreciated

    ------------------------------
    Alicia Jennings
    Cassville NY
    ------------------------------



  • 93.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 02-12-2023 08:33
    Hi:
     I am a pediatric cardiologist based in Hackensack NJ. I salute you all for all your bravery,tenacity, advocacy and love  for all your children dealing daily with CHD. We are proud and excited to announce that we will be running Hope With Heart Camp this summer for the 32nd year. It is  a medically supervised sleep away camp specifically for children with moderate to severe congenital or acquired heart disease. It is a bonding and confidence building experience for young people to put aside their daily burden of CHD and bond with others who have "walked a mile in their shoes." Please read the attached and contact me with any questions. The camp is free and located in Warren County NJ.  It is for children and teenagers 7-17.Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions or concerns. Cell 201 741-0683 or email glkipel@gmail.com. Please find the attached information.  We hope to see you this summer!

    --





    Sincerely 
    Dr. George  Kipel MD FACC
    Medical Director Hope With Heart Camp 
    Pediatric Cardiology Hackensack University Medical Center Hackensack NJ
    Assistant Professor of Pediatrics Hackensack Meridian Medical School





  • 94.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 03-27-2023 08:47

    Hi I'm A, parent of a toddler with severe CHD.

    Just joined this community because I'm looking for help with dealing with a bad hospital experience. 

    We chose a specific surgeon because he was described as "perfect" by the department head. We he ultimately made mistakes, he tried to hide them rather than be upfront about what happened. We also had troubles with other team members blaming us for giving our child pneumonia immediately after their surgery and suggesting I was a bad parent for not quitting my job.

    Here's my question: for those of you who've had bad experiences, how did you overcome them?

    I'm scared to bring my child back to that hospital between the surgical outcomes and the emotional baggage.



    ------------------------------
    A H
    ------------------------------



  • 95.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 06-09-2023 14:35

    Hello! My name is Tanya, I am a stay at home mom to our little heart warrior, Mila. She has Truncus Arteriosus that was brought on by her 22q11.21 deletion (also known as DiGeorge Syndrome). She has had two OHS procedures and one cardiac cath so far. She had her procedures done at OU Children's in Oklahoma City where we were able to receive Bravery Bags which is how I first heard of MLH. I have since learned that there are many hospitals that do not have a Bravery Bag program set up with their local MLH chapters, and was wondering if there was a way I could check on that where we live now? We have moved to the Sacramento area in California. I have tried to reach out to the chapter President awhile ago but haven't heard back and was going to try again and when I searched I found an old email inviting me to join this community group! So here I am! I would love to volunteer or somehow help set up Bravery Bags to local hospitals here if I am able, just not sure where to start. It was such a comfort for us and I just want others to have that little light during some of the scariest times. 

    Excited to be a part of this group! I try to get into every resource I can to learn whatever I can to best help our Mila girl and others who have a CHD. 



    ------------------------------
    Tanya Alexander
    Lincoln CA
    ------------------------------



  • 96.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    This message was posted by a user wishing to remain anonymous
    Posted 06-10-2023 02:08
    This post was removed


  • 97.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    This message was posted by a user wishing to remain anonymous
    Posted 06-10-2023 07:01
    This post was removed


  • 98.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 07-11-2023 13:46

    Hello! My name is Jillian Cormier and I am currently 27 weeks pregnant with my first child, a boy. My husband and I haven't decided on a name just yet. We have some ideas, but we want to meet him first to make sure we get it right. We recently found out via fetal echo that our boy has a combination of congenital heart defects. He has complete AVC type c, Tetralogy of Fallot with pulmonary valve atresia, and dilated overriding aortic valve. The doctor has told us it's a unique combination of heart defects, but we are putting a plan in place to give our boy the best care once he arrives. I know how lucky we are that it was discovered prior to his birth. 

    I am so glad our genetic counselor mentioned Mended Hearts/Mended Little Hearts to us as a resource. I already feel like I am getting good information and support. We have great medical and familial support, but there's something different about talking to people who can come from a place of understanding. 

    Looking forward to getting better acquainted with this group and its members :)



    ------------------------------
    Jillian Cormier
    Lutz FL
    ------------------------------



  • 99.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 07-17-2023 11:01

    Hi Jillian and welcome to Mended Little Hearts. Congratulations on your pregnancy, I'm sure you and your husband are really excited, but have a lot of questions too. Mended Little Hearts is here to support you through your journey.

    I'm not sure if you've connected with them yet, but we do have a group that is local to your area, MLH of the FL Gulf Coast. If you haven't reached out to them yet, you can find out more information by emailing one of the lead coordinators, Aslee Cleary, at ashlee.cleary47@gmail.com. If you have any other questions about MHI resources or materials, please email our staff at info@mendedhearts.org.

    Sincerely,

    Mandy Sandkuhler



    ------------------------------
    Mandy Sandkuhler
    Alpharetta GA
    (469) 888-3400
    ------------------------------



  • 100.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 10-16-2023 08:31

    Hi Everyone,

    My eight year old has Wolff Parkinson White Syndrome. He has  an ablation at three that did not work and recently had another that did not work. His EP says that it's the most complicated pathway he's seen in twenty years of ablations, which is very frustrating. They think it's possible that he cannot be fixed. We are waiting on genetic testing. Our son is very prone to SVT - set off by fevers, caffeine, heated pools, etc. It's scary and difficult to get him out of SVT once he's in it. It's usually several hours in the ER before he reverts, typically with sotalol. We currently live in San Antonio but will be moving to Providence, RI next summer. We have never had a heart community here. It is lonely sometimes. I would love for Davis to meet other kids with heart conditions. We will be transitioning his care to Boston Children's - any tips/advice about pediatric EPs there would be appreciated. 



    ------------------------------
    Bess Frost
    Associate Professor
    UT Health San Antonio
    san Antonio TX
    ------------------------------



  • 101.  RE: Welcome and Introduce Yourself

    Posted 10-16-2023 13:17

    Hi Bess,

    Thank you for joining. I'm so sorry to hear that your son and family have been going through this and that you haven't been receiving support. We do have a Mended Little Hearts group in St. Antonio that I would like to connect you with, and we have a Mended Little Hearts group in Boston as well that I can connect you with. If you could email me at mandy.sandkuhler@mendedhearts.org I will introduce you to leaders in both cities. 

    Thanks,
    Mandy Sandkuhler

    Director of Field Services and Communications

    The Mended Hearts, Inc. 

    469-888-3400



    ------------------------------
    Mandy Sandkuhler
    Alpharetta GA
    (469) 888-3400
    ------------------------------