This October, Jack and his family will join the HeartKids community at the Canberra Two Feet & A Heartbeat walk.
Jack spent his first week of life in the NICU in Canberra, where he underwent a series of scans and tests before being diagnosed with Tetralogy of Fallot. Jack’s mum, Nicole, shares her son’s journey and the ongoing support HeartKids has provided their family.
Can you tell us about Jack’s heart journey?
Jack was born at 38 weeks. We had no indication of any heart concerns with Jack. He spent his first week at the NICU in Canberra and after scans and lots of tests, Jack was diagnosed with Tetralogy of Fallot. We followed through with lots of weekly care through the Canberra pediatrics clinic, as well as having a 5 day stay over at Tresillian in Weston Creek, which taught us some feeding and sleeping habits. Jack had open heart surgery at 6 months old at the Royal Children’s Hospital in Melbourne. Since then, he’s a very healthy little boy.
How has HeartKids supported your family?
We were offered ongoing support with HeartKids through our whole process, and that support is continued today. We know they’re here for our family if we need it.
What do you wish more people understood about childhood heart conditions?
It can happen to any family. We had no idea about Jack’s heart condition until he was born. There is support for any families who are in need.
What would you say to another heart family?
You’re not alone in your journey. Some days feel heavy and dark. We had never heard of HeartKids or even kids with heart conditions until it arrived on our door step.
To support families like Jack’s, join your local Two Feet & A Heartbeat walk this October.
