Oliver’s Story

Site created on February 26, 2018

Oliver was born four years ago and as far as we could tell, he was perfect in every way. The nurse noticed a murmur and a cardiologist was consulted. We weren’t worried because we were told murmurs often happen in young babies. Just before we were discharged, the cardiologist came to perform Oliver’s ECHO. He immediately said that Oliver had a congenital heart defect, an interrupted aortic arch. Instead of being discharged, we were sent to Egleston Children’s Hospital for surgical management. He had his first open heart surgery at about a week old. He had a very difficult recovery but after almost 3 months, Oliver was back home with us. He required a lot of care and had a feeding tube but he got strong and developed that amazing smile and spirit that we all love about him! At 9 months old, he had his second open heart surgery and after some complications had to have a third heart surgery. He came home after almost 3 months and we celebrated his birthday out of the hospital! Since then Oliver has been growing and getting stronger. Now Oliver is four and he is having his 4th heart surgery. Oliver will tell anyone he meets that he’s getting his heart fixed and he’s been looking forward to it for several months.  He has been so positive through all the hospitizations and doctors appointments that it’s sometimes hard to be scared. As I type this, he’s in the OR getting his heart fixed. I will put updates and photos up to keep all of Oliver’s fans updated on his progress. Thank you all for your love and support!

Newest Update

Journal entry by Christine Thompson

I haven’t updated in a while because things have been really hectic at home. I’ll start by saying Oliver is healing beautifully and playing and feeling like himself again! On Thursday, after we came home from the hospital, I noticed I wasn’t feeling well. After I spiked a fever I went to see the NP where I tested positive for the flu. Lowell was all lined up to care for Ollie when Friday morning his dad passed away. “Grand L” as my kids call him was such a beloved family member and his passing was fairly sudden. Sometimes everything seems to happen at once. We decided to send Ollie to my moms for a few days so Lowell could focus on helping his mom. Luckily, no one else caught the flu and he’s been getting spoiled rotten over the weekend. I disinfected the house and am planning to get him home in the morning. I can’t wait to see him!!
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