Riley’s story is one of resilience, strength, and an unwavering spirit. Born with an unbalanced atrioventricular septal defect (AVSD), his journey began before most of us could even comprehend the fragility of life. From the very start, Riley’s heart was not just a physical organ; it was a testament to the fight for survival, a symbol of love, hope, and the relentless pursuit of life.
At just four months old, Riley faced his first battle—heart surgery. A delicate procedure to repair his heart, it marked the beginning of a long series of medical challenges. What followed was a blur of hospital visits, surgeries, and procedures—two valve replacements, each forced by infections and other complications. Yet, through it all, Riley fought. His tiny body, fragile and small, carried a strength that few could understand. He was not just surviving; he was thriving in the face of unimaginable adversity.
After what seemed like an eternity of medical battles, Riley finally came home at nine months old, a triumph that felt like a miracle. But this victory was only the beginning. Over the next few years, his heart continued to face insurmountable obstacles. Each hospital stay, each illness, brought new tests to his body. But through it all, Riley’s spirit remained unbroken. The fight he fought was not just for survival—it was for life itself. His journey was a reflection of his unshakable will to thrive against the odds.
As his parents, we watched him grow, not in the conventional sense, but in a way that few children ever will. We witnessed Riley’s ability to overcome obstacles that would have shattered most of us. And through his trials, we learned the true meaning of strength. Riley’s resilience was not just inspiring; it was life-changing. He became the heartbeat of our family, pushing us to keep going even when we felt we had nothing left to give.
In October 2024, Riley faced yet another surgery—a mitral valve replacement with a mechanical valve. The procedure was successful, and for a brief moment, it felt like we were finally in the clear. The road ahead seemed bright, and we celebrated his triumph, eager to bring him home. We thought we had reached the end of this long, arduous journey. But life, it seems, had other plans.
Just days after his surgery, a stomach bug triggered a devastating chain of events. His body, already worn thin from years of medical battles, couldn’t keep up. Three complete heart blocks, blood clots, ECMO support, and five more surgeries followed in rapid succession. Despite his tiny, fragile heart’s tireless efforts, it could not recover. Riley fought with everything he had, every ounce of his being focused on holding on. But in the end, it wasn’t enough.
Riley left us on January 21, 2025, after four and a half years of courageous battles. He died in our arms, a bittersweet moment that still feels like a dream. As we held him, we felt the weight of all the love, strength, and grace he had given us over the years. Riley was, and always will be, our heart warrior. His life, though short, was a life well lived—a life filled with love, faith, and courage.
Riley’s story is not just about his physical battles; it’s a story of inspiration. He was one in 100—a rare soul whose journey impacted everyone around him. Heart babies like Riley are true warriors. They fight battles most of us will never understand, and they inspire us with their strength. Riley’s fight was not just about surviving—it was about living.
His story continues to touch lives, even in his absence. If you were lucky enough to meet him, you were met with a radiant smile, a warmth that could light up the darkest room. That smile, that spirit, lives on in the hearts of all who knew him. We will never forget Riley, and we will continue to fight as he did, with courage, love, and an unbreakable spirit.
Riley’s legacy is one of strength, hope, and love. We are forever grateful for the time we had with him, and we will honor his memory by carrying his spirit with us in everything we do. Riley was one in 100, but to us, he was everything.
We love you, Riley. Your fight will never be forgotten.
