8-year-old Aria was born with serious congenital heart conditions – coarctation of the aorta and aortic stenosis. She required open heart surgery at just 3 days old but it had to be delayed as she developed sepsis.
Mum Jodie picks up the story, including their family’s positive experiences of the LCHU, their fantastic fundraising over the years and how Aria is now a super swimmer!
Aria’s mum, Jodie, said:
“At just 16 days old, she finally underwent the surgery, but sadly, it came with complications. She developed vocal cord paralysis and laryngomalacia, which she still lives with today. You can still hear her stridor — especially when she’s laughing or running.
“At only 3 months old, she had to go through a balloon dilation because her aorta narrowed again. Now, at 8 years old, we’ve been told there’s a mild apparent leak near the area of her aortic stenosis. Despite everything, Aria continues to face each challenge with strength and resilience.
“Our experience at the Leeds Congenital Heart Unit (LCHU) was a mix of challenges and deep gratitude. From the very beginning, the staff shown incredible expertise and compassion. During Aria’s first surgery at just 16 days old, the care she received was exceptional, even though it was a very difficult time for us, we were also well looked after.
“The team explained everything clearly, supported us emotionally and treated Aria with such kindness. Over the years, through her balloon dilation and ongoing monitoring which is now performed at our local hospital with the team coming to us, we’ve always felt she was in safe hands.
“CHSF has been a huge support to us throughout Aria’s journey. During her treatment, they helped take some of the pressure off with practical support – things like accommodation near the hospital, which meant we could stay close to Aria without worrying about travel or costs. They also provided comfort items on the ward that made such a difference during long and emotional days.
“Even after her surgeries, CHSF has continued to be there for us offering emotional support, keeping us connected through events and just generally reminding us we’re not alone in this. Their presence has really helped us feel part of a community that understands.
“Aria got into swimming when it was recommended by her auntie when her cousins was having swimming lessons, because at the time Aria was in and out of different activity clubs and it was like she didn’t feel she “fit in” and we wanted her to have something active that she could enjoy and feel proud of, and at the time we thought swimming seemed like a great fit as well as a great life skill.
“She took to it really well as she pushed herself away from her fears and it’s now become a big part of her life as she was to pursue her dream performing at the Olympics later in life. “It does help her physically, of course, but also emotionally as now she feels free and strong in the water.
“When she first started in 2023 she was very shy of the water and us as parents are so proud of her achievements in a short space of time especially when some lessons she has to take time out of the water because of her losing her breath. But she jumps back in and pushes herself to be the best she can and she truly shown us nothing is stopping her chasing her dream. Aria has just passed another 2 badges which is amazing! (10 metres butterfly and 10 metres breaststroke).
“Now, soon to be 9 years old in July, she’s doing really well. She still has ongoing heart checkups, and some challenges with her breathing as she’s being diagnosed with asthma but overall, she’s thriving. She’s happy and active.
“Fundraising became such an important part of our journey, it’s our way of giving back and showing gratitude for everything Aria has received. Jordan and I have taken on all sorts of challenges and events over the years.
“One of the big highlights was when Jordan abseiled down the side of the Portland building, which was terrifying for me to watch but he’s a thrill seeker and it was so worth it!
“We’ve also ran raffles, organised football events and even ran a lottery bingo for so long. Our family, friends, and community were so supportive and it was amazing to see how many people wanted to help. Every time we fundraise, it feels like we’re not only supporting CHSF, but also honouring Aria’s strength and the care she’s received.
“To date we have raised a massive £14,454, which as parents doesn’t feel it touches the amount we deserve to give CHSF for what you all did for us as a family – and especially Aria!”
CHSF exists to support local heart warriors and their families. Empowered lives, because of you. There is no better way to explain our charity than using a powerful story – like yours.
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