Albert

With thanks to Albert’s mum, Ellie, for sharing their family’s experiences with us.

“Our experience of congenital heart disease began at our 20-week pregnancy scan, where our son was diagnosed with Tetralogy of Fallot (ToF).

“This was an incredibly overwhelming and frightening time, particularly as we faced a long wait for the results of an amniocentesis for further genetic testing, which thankfully came back clear.

“Throughout the pregnancy, we attended numerous scans and appointments to monitor his condition and prepare for his arrival. Following his birth, Albert required a 10-day hospital admission and underwent a stent procedure at four days old.

“We attended clinic appointments every four weeks until he was seven months old. This was when Albert underwent open heart surgery.

“Unfortunately, his recovery was complicated by both bacterial and viral chest infections, and he became extremely unwell – making it a very touch and go and frightening time for our family.

“Albert spent two and a half weeks in intensive care before being transferred to Ward L51, where he remained for a further four weeks before he was finally well enough to come home.

“The entire journey was incredibly challenging, emotionally and physically, but we will always be grateful to the medical teams who cared for him and helped him through such a difficult start to life.

“Throughout our journey, Children’s Heart Surgery Fund helped us feel seen, heard and cared for during what was an incredibly frightening and overwhelming time for our family.

“The support CHSF provided made such a difference – particularly during the long hospital stays when we were navigating so much uncertainty and worry.

“Having access to accommodation and food vouchers helped ease some of the practical and financial pressures, allowing us to focus on being there for our son when he needed us most.

“The wellbeing support was also invaluable, reminding us that our own emotional wellbeing mattered too.

“Children’s Heart Surgery Fund helped us feel less alone throughout the journey, and we will always be grateful for the kindness, understanding and support they showed our family.”