February is Heart Month – a month of raising awareness about congenital heart defects, the charities that help support heart children and their families and sharing stories about life with CHD. As many of my blog readers will know, my daughter Jessica was born with a complex CHD called hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS). This heart condition basically means that she has half a working heart. Jessica has undergone several heart surgeries since her heart condition was first picked up at my 20 week scan. This is the story of our journey as a heart family:
Oh Louise I have cried my way through this utterly beautiful video. What an absolute miracle Jessica is. The photos of her journey are incredible. Such a brave brave little girl. And super brave parents. That photo of the moment of the three of you together – I don’t think that will ever leave me – sheer joy and relief and so much more. Thank you so much for sharing this. Sending the biggest hugs my lovely #ablogginggoodtime
Thank you so much Helen. That photo is one of my favourites – I still remember that huge overwhelming rush of joy I had when Jessica was born and I heard her cry – that moment of knowing that she was alive and we still had hope. Those first cuddles were utterly magical. It’s been such a huge journey but having Jessica at the end of it all made every single step worth while and I would do it all over again if I had to. We’ve been so lucky x
Oh my goodness this is such a lovely and beautiful film. Made me very teary, the photos of baby Jessica after her operations too. You are all so brave xxx #ablogginggoodtime
Thank you Emma – it’s amazing to see how far Jessica has come. Looking back made me quite emotional too! x
That video is beautiful! Jessica really is a little miracle x
Thank you Kim, she certainly is! x
You’ve created a beautiful video here about your daughter and her condition. It really sounds like a mouthful for a little one to say. You made me giggle by including a photo of Santa as I recalled what happened and cry at the fact you’ve gone through so much. Keep strong and Happy Belated Birthday Jessica. You know all the best people have their birthday in January 😉 #ablogginggoodtime
Thank you Helena. Her full list of heart conditions is quite a mouthful – at the moment we just keep it simple for her by telling her she has a special heart. The photo of Santa always makes me giggle (and inwardly cringe!) too!
What a beautiful video. You are all so brave and isn’t it amazing what the medical profession has been able to do. Thank you for sharing an insight into your world and linking to #ablogginggoodtime
Thank you Katie. It certainly is amazing what the medical profession can do – we are so thankful for everything they have done so far x
What a beautiful video, and what a beautiful miracle girl! I’ve been meaning to do a video along these lines and you’ve inspired me to just get it done. It really brings it all home just what these tiny warriors go through just to be here when you see it like this. x
Thank you Jenni – it was quite emotional looking back over it all.