Meet Kimberly
Kimberly was a premature baby born at 27 weeks gestation and weighed 1 lb, 13 oz. Her lungs were underdeveloped, and she was on oxygen for 4 months at Cottage Hospital. She had a congenital heart defect – Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) – a hole in her aorta artery had not closed properly. She was transferred to Children’s Hospital Los Angeles (CHLA) just before Thanksgiving, and two days after Christmas she underwent heart surgery to repair the hole in her aorta. Two weeks later she underwent laser surgery on her eyes because she had developed Retinopathy, where the veins behind her eyes were growing too quickly which could have resulted in blindness.
After 6 months and 1 week in hospitals, Kimberly is home with her family. However, she continues to be on oxygen, and she aspirates when eating resulting in a gastrostomy tube (G-tube). She is on a special formula to help her get the nutrients and support her immune system. She will remain on oxygen for a while as she hopefully grows out of her blood oxygen levels dropping to dangerous levels when she is without it. The family must travel down to CHLA every month to see four different doctors – one for her heart, lungs, eyes and G-tube.
When we met mom, she was so overwhelmed that she didn’t know what help she needed. She was in survival mode. As her family settles into life with their baby at home, we are helping her with gas cards for the trips down south to Children’s Hospital Los Angeles and grocery cards for the expensive formula she needs.
“I personally think they help you out with many needs, they have been very helpful and supportive. Many of us should help with this program so we can help each other.” – Jacqueline, Mom to Kimberly talking about Hearts Aligned.
Your donations and gifts help Kimberly’s family and other families that are struggling with the reality of having a critically ill child. We are grateful for your support and hope that you will continue to make a difference in our community.
Please consider donating today!