Mariana Gonzalez-Stewart

Our journey with Mariana started several years ago. It has taken us down a bit of a winding path with many unexpected detours. One of the unexpected detours is an anomalous right coronary artery origin in her heart. Quite a mouthful and certainly a brainteaser! This was discovered in the process of testing for other health issues, and although we aren't grateful for those health issues, we are grateful it was discovered! Initially, it was determined that it did not present an immediate problem and that we needed to focus on getting Mariana healthier, and that is exactly what we have been doing over the last 3 years. This fall, the cardiologist felt it was time to run a few more tests to determine whether the anomaly was causing any problems. After a couple of tests, it was determined that in fact, her right coronary artery was being compressed during exercise and that the best course of action was to surgically repair it. That is where we are now!


On November 15, 2017 Mariana will have open heart surgery to repair the anomaly. While surgery is such a scary idea, we are comforted by the knowledge and skill of her medical team and the deep network of support and prayers that surround us. We are confident that it is the right course of action and that after surgery, Mariana will be able to do all the things she loves to do: hike, swim, bike, run, ski, and the list goes on! Amen!

We know that many of you will be holding Mariana and our whole family up in prayer, so we have created this site to keep you informed, and we will continued to post updates until she returns home. 

Thank you for your prayers on behalf of Mariana!