Admittedly, I had a beautiful draft of this entry started for Milo's 2nd Heartiversary but it was accidentally deleted. I'm calling it fate because we were able to get some extra special memories and milestones hit since then. And, it's the last day of #heartmonth! I'll include photos and an update on Milo's heart but first, what's he been up to you ask? 

Milo started walking!! Milo has been working so hard to build his confidence in walking and finally he's found it! We have been watching him build strength and coordination since repair surgery. Totally worth the wait to watch how happy Milo's to be mobile. He's not running (yet) but loves chasing after Ziggy now.

Milo is also talking up a storm and stringing 3-4 words together! Some of our favorites are "ehwee" for his elephant lovey, Zishy for Ziggy, and "nugs" for knuckles. He says "hiiiiii" to us every morning when we get him from the crib, says buh bye and ni-ni (night night). It's been extra fun watching Milo pick up new words and habits from big bro. 

Books, animals, "tabby" the tablet, and anything Ziggy is playing with are the favorite toys. Also enjoys loving on anyone's dog or cat. He calls Dica, Teddy, and Marley by name, chasing them while terrifying Ted the cat...

Milo is also growing like a weed, he's in 2t clothes and almost busting out of those too. He's a tall guy for how lean he is but finally getting some rolls back since infancy. He's gotten a couple of bumps and bruises from all the new exploration he's doing but nothing stopping him from fully experiencing being a toddler. 

Milo has had visits from TT Sydney, Nana and Baba Cheryl and Jay, and so many outings to meet new friends and family this year. He's been loving all the new faces and getting to be out and about more. Favorite places so far have to be the Science Museum and playground, although grocery store is a close third. 

Medically speaking, Milo is doing great! His latest procedure was December 8th with the hope of placing a Stent in his right pulmonary artery. Unfortunately, the structure of that artery since repair is nearly a 90° angle and wouldn't allow placement of a Stent. They were able to balloon (plasty) the artery to allow a bit more blood flow and his oxygen levels have been upper 90s since then! 

Due to the RPA structure, we're expecting another surgery in the next few years. But the good news is we were told not to expect any hospitalization in 2024!!! Not even a sedated CT scan is on the horizon, we are ALL grateful! This has to be the best way to celebrate heart month ❤️💙❤️💙

As always, we appreciate continued prayers and well wishes for Milo. This time, we hope to stay hospital free this year, O2 to remain in the high 90s, and to steer clear of the flu/rsv/covid. 

We are so thankful to our family and friends for their support and help with things like taking care of Ziggy during clinic appointments, food drop offs, lunches away from the hospital, Doordash gift cards, and all the texts/calls/messages of support. We are grateful for the community of heart families and medical providers who came before us and have paved the way for Milo's care team to keep him alive and well 💙❤️ 

Sincerely, 

The Olsen's