Born with a congenital heart defect, Lizzy has undergone three open heart surgeries, her first at only six weeks old. Read more about Lizzy’s focus on the magic in her life and how it has helped her overcome the uncertainty of unpredictable health challenges. 

Three Major Surgeries

Lizzy’s medical journey began the moment she was born. With only one blood vessel leading out of her heart instead of two, oxygen rich and oxygen deplete blood mixed and less oxygen was able to reach her body. This is a rare condition known as Truncus Arteriosus. 

Open heart surgery was needed as soon as possible, which for Lizzy happened when she was just six weeks old. Less than two years later, just short of her second birthday, Lizzy had her second open heart surgery. As her body grew, further adjustments were needed and her third major operation was needed at only 10 years old. 

Wishes, Wands, and Witches

Despite the difficulties, Lizzy has remained hopeful and focuses her life on the possibilities instead of the problems. She had the opportunity to be a witch at the Magical World of Harry Potter as part of the Make a Wish Foundation. It was a truly wonderful experience. 

On her 12th birthday, the magic continued as Lizzy was given a Hufflepuff cake straight from the Wizarding World complete with a magic wand. Lizzy’s Sugar Angel was able to take her back to some of her most magical memories and create new ones for her to hold on to moving forward.

One Magical Day at a Time

Lizzy’s condition is currently stable and she has no restrictions, but her condition is ever-changing and unpredictable. As her body continues to grow, additional surgeries will be needed, but like any good witch or wizard, Lizzy will face the unknown one magical day at a time. 

Lizzy’s mother, Kelly, describes the experience in her own words. 

This is a wonderful program that brings so much “sweet” joy to kids that have had to go through so much in their medical journeys. We are truly thankful for its impact on Lizzy.

You can be a part of bringing “sweet joy to kids.” To find out how, click the link below.