Adelyn’s Inspirational Story

We were told our daughter might never take her first breath—but Adelyn arrived, defying all odds, in December 2019. Born with Tetralogy of Fallot, a complex heart defect, she immediately began her journey of overcoming challenges. Initially relying on an NG tube after a failed swallow study, we took her home under pediatric hospice care, uncertain of what the future would hold.

Just months later, the pandemic hit, further complicating her care—hospice visits halted, and crucial medical appointments were canceled. Yet, Adelyn kept fighting. In April 2020, amidst the peak of COVID, she underwent emergency surgery to repair a diaphragmatic hernia and received a G-tube. It was during these uncertain times we made the difficult choice to relocate from South Carolina to Georgia, driven by hope and determination.

Once settled in Georgia, we connected with the dedicated cardiology team at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta (CHOA), who bravely agreed to repair Adelyn’s heart. In October 2020, Adelyn underwent successful heart surgery, astonishing her doctors with a strong and determined recovery—earning herself the nickname “trendsetter” and “fighter.”

Life hasn’t been without continued challenges. Her complex airway condition has led to multiple hospitalizations and surgeries, reinforcing the necessity of advocating fiercely for her quality of life. Today, Adelyn is thriving in her own joyful way. She may not speak words, but her vibrant personality shines through—full of joy, expressive, and always eager to connect with others. In December, our little warrior turned five, a milestone we once thought impossible. Adelyn is our daily reminder that strength, advocacy, and unconditional love truly make miracles happen.