When I discovered I was expecting Paisley, I had no idea how drastically our lives would change. During my 20-week ultrasound, I received the most challenging news of my life. The doctors presented me with three choices: abortion, comfort care, or traveling to Nashville for advanced care. Without a moment’s hesitation, I opted for Nashville, clinging to hope despite the overwhelming uncertainty.
Upon our arrival, the medical team offered a glimmer of hope. They informed me that Paisley would require surgery within her first week and ultimately need a heart transplant. However, they assured me they would do everything in their power to help. At 38 weeks and one day, Paisley made her unexpected debut. Although she was not due for another week, she had lost all her amniotic fluid, necessitating her immediate delivery to prevent distress. I felt no pain or discomfort, just a wave of emotions.
When she arrived, I was in disbelief. She emerged pink, crying, and healthier than anyone had expected. It felt miraculous. She spent two weeks and one day in the NICU under careful observation. The doctors were waiting for her PDA to close, but it never did. Despite the hurdles, we were allowed to take her home for a short while.
At two months, Paisley underwent her first open-heart surgery to close the PDA and place a pulmonary artery (PA) band. Her heart was in failure, causing blood to flood her lungs. It was a frightening experience, but the surgery was successful, and she remained in the hospital for just over a week. Everyone anticipated she would need a transplant after this procedure, making the transplant list a part of our reality. Yet, Paisley continued to surprise us. Not only did she exceed expectations, but she also managed to live without the feeding tube she had depended on for so long.
Today, Paisley is thriving, defying the odds every single day. She is listed low on the heart transplant list, but we remain hopeful for a miraculous healing. We return to Nashville every three months for checkups, where doctors confirm her progress, and each visit fills us with gratitude for how far she has come.
Her personality is truly remarkable—everyone who meets her falls in love. She is a little warrior with an indomitable spirit. Despite all the challenges, she is learning and growing. Paisley can now pull herself up and is constantly exploring her surroundings with curiosity. Each day, she amazes us with something new.
Through all of this, Paisley’s strength has been nothing short of miraculous. She has taught us the true meaning of perseverance, and with each passing day, she continues to defy expectations.
Paisley’s journey is a testament to the power of faith, hope, and resilience. She embodies the spirit of a warrior, and we feel incredibly blessed to be her parents. We refuse to give up on her, and with God’s guidance, we believe that her journey is far from over. Whether through a miracle or the exceptional care she is receiving, we know she will keep fighting.
We are immensely proud of her, and each day she inspires us to be stronger, to love more deeply, and to maintain faith in the face of adversity. Paisley’s strength is our strength, and we will continue to support her as she grows and flourishes.
How has Paisley’s story inspired you? Please share your thoughts and prayers for our heart warrior in the comments below!
