A Mother’s Thank You to the Team That Cared for Damian’s Heart
Love Notes is a series of articles written by parents, patients, caregivers and loved ones expressing gratitude to the incredible teams at Rady Children’s Hospital San Diego.
Dear Dr. Nigro,
It’s hard to believe it has already been four years since we last saw you. In so many ways, it still feels like yesterday.
When Damian was born on March 4, he looked like a perfectly healthy baby boy. We had no idea how quickly our world was about to change.
After his diagnosis with a serious heart condition (TGA), those first days were filled with fear, uncertainty and heartbreak. As new parents, we were overwhelmed. In those moments, it was impossible to imagine what the future would look like or believe that one day things could feel normal again.
Looking back now, I realize how much hope there truly was, even when we couldn’t see it at the time.
Today, Damian is thriving. He hasn’t needed medication since he was five months old, and his cardiology visits are now just once a year. He has PE twice a week at school, does gymnastics twice a week and spends the rest of his time running everywhere he goes. He is full of energy, joy and curiosity. Most people are shocked when they learn he was born with a serious heart condition.
One of the things I’m proudest of is how Damian sees his scar. We’ve raised him to love it because to us, it tells the story of his strength and everything he has overcome. He wears it proudly.
There truly are no words big enough to thank you and the entire CTICU team. Because of your care, skill and compassion, our son gets to live this beautiful, active, happy life. You gave us more than medical care. You gave us time, memories, birthdays, laughter and the chance to watch Damian grow into the kind and joyful little boy he is today.
I hope someday you’ll have the chance to see him again and witness just how far he’s come.
When I think back to Damian at just 11 days old in the hospital and see him now at 4 years old, it’s emotional in a way I can’t fully describe. I am reminded every day of how far he has come and of the people who made that possible.
Thank you, from the bottom of our hearts.
With love,
Damian’s Mom, Marla
What Is TGA?
Transposition of the Great Arteries (TGA) is a congenital heart condition, meaning a baby is born with it.
In TGA, the heart’s two main arteries are reversed, preventing oxygen-rich blood from circulating through the body properly.
TGA is usually diagnosed shortly after birth and often requires surgery early in life.
Thanks to advances in pediatric cardiac care, many children with TGA grow up to lead active, healthy lives, running, playing and keeping up with their peers just like Damian.
Learn more about the Heart Institute at Rady Children’s.