Meet Koa, a spunky and brave 2-year-old boy whose name perfectly suits him. His name, Koa, means “warrior,” and from the moment he entered this world, he has proven that he is, indeed, a warrior. Born on March 25, 2023, in Rochester, MN, Koa’s journey has been filled with extraordinary challenges, but through each obstacle, he has shown resilience, determination, and a fierce will to live.
Koa was born with hypoplastic right heart syndrome and pulmonary atresia, two serious heart conditions that left him with half a heart. His heart wasn’t fully developed, making it difficult for him to survive without significant medical intervention. His condition was critical from the moment he was born, and his fight began right away. At just two days old, Koa had to undergo a cath lab procedure to have a stent placed in his patent ductus arteriosus (PDA)—a vital blood vessel in his heart. Unfortunately, the procedure didn’t go as planned. The stent failed and migrated into Koa’s right pulmonary artery, something that had never happened before at Mayo Clinic. The doctors were stunned by this unexpected complication, but they didn’t give up.
Koa’s medical team quickly regrouped and decided that the best course of action was to try placing another stent in his PDA. At only five days old, Koa bravely underwent a second cath procedure. This time, the doctors were successful in placing the stent, deciding that the first one would remain in place. After two long weeks in the NICU, Koa’s parents were finally able to bring their precious boy home, where he would continue to fight and grow stronger every day.
But the road ahead was still uncertain. When Koa was just five months old, his parents received more frightening news: his stent was narrowing, and his oxygen levels were dangerously low. His oxygen saturation typically hovered between 75-85%, but when Koa was rushed to the hospital, his oxygen levels had dropped to just 45%. His doctors knew they needed to act quickly to save his life. Once again, Koa had to undergo a cath procedure, this time to balloon open his PDA and restore blood flow to his heart. Despite a few complications, Koa’s care team successfully opened his PDA, stabilizing his condition and buying him the time he needed to grow.
After this procedure, his doctors decided the best course of action would be to keep Koa inpatient until he was strong enough for his next major heart surgery, the “Glenn” procedure. This open-heart surgery was a critical step in helping Koa’s heart function better and allowing him to continue growing. On October 6, 2023, Koa’s parents had to entrust their tiny 14-pound baby to the surgical team. The thought of handing their little one over for such a major procedure was heart-wrenching, but they had faith in Koa’s strength and the skill of his medical team. After the surgery, Koa’s parents were thrilled to hear that the operation was a success, and they could finally bring their brave boy home.
Since that day, Koa has continued to thrive. He is now a healthy, lively toddler who loves playing outside, chasing balls, and making animal noises that never fail to make those around him smile. He’s a little boy full of life, laughter, and joy—proof that even the smallest and most fragile hearts can carry immense strength. Despite everything he has been through, Koa’s personality shines bright. He has brought so much joy to his family and continues to inspire everyone around him with his determination and courage.
Although Koa is doing wonderfully now, his journey is far from over. He will need another surgery in the coming years, called the “Fontan,” which is another crucial step in ensuring his heart continues to grow and function properly. This procedure will help Koa’s heart adjust to the demands of his growing body, and though it will be another challenge, there is no doubt that Koa will face it with the same strength and resilience that he has shown since birth. His medical team is optimistic about his future, knowing that Koa’s heart, though different from most, is supported by a family and a community of doctors and nurses who are dedicated to his care.
Koa’s story is one of incredible bravery. He has already faced more than most people will in a lifetime, yet he continues to fight. His journey is not just a testament to his strength but also a reminder of the importance of hope, love, and the power of medical advancements. Thanks to the hard work and dedication of his care team, Koa has been given the chance to live a full and vibrant life.
The love and support Koa has received from his family and his medical team have been nothing short of remarkable. His family is filled with gratitude, not just for the medical professionals who have fought alongside him, but for the small moments of joy that Koa has brought into their lives. Every milestone, no matter how small, is a victory. From the moment Koa was born, his family knew he was special—and with every passing day, he continues to prove just how strong he really is.
Koa’s story has touched the hearts of many, and he is a beacon of hope for other families facing similar challenges. His fight is far from over, but if there’s one thing that’s certain, it’s that Koa is a true warrior. His heart may be different, but his spirit is as strong as they come.
As Koa continues to grow and face whatever comes his way, one thing is for sure—he will always have the love and support of his family, his doctors, and everyone who believes in him. Koa’s journey is an inspiration to all, a reminder that with strength, hope, and courage, even the smallest of hearts can overcome the greatest of challenges.
We are so proud of you, Koa. You are our little warrior, and we can’t wait to see all the amazing things you will accomplish in the years to come. Keep fighting, little one. The world is cheering you on.
