Kelsey’s Story

When Kelsey was just six weeks old, she had her first heart surgery.  She had a blockage in her aorta that was causing her heart to enlarge. By time it was discovered, Kelsey was already in the beginning stages of congestive heart failure. She was transported to University of Michigan, where they were able to repair the aorta, and after three long weeks, Kelsey was able to come home.

While the repair was successful, unfortunately, the damage to her heart was extensive and irreversible. Thankfully, Kelsey had an amazing cardiologist at Dayton Children’s Hospital. Dr. Joseph Ross took care of Kelsey for 20 years. He had always prepared us, as best he could, for the reality that one day Kelsey would need a heart transplant. The medications could only carry her for so long.

As Kelsey became an adult, she transitioned to an adult cardiologist at Nationwide Children’s Hospital in Columbus. She also acquired a heart failure team at the Ross Heart Hospital at OSU. Throughout her 28 years, Kelsey has proven to be a fighter, never giving up, and accepting her situation with grace and the most beautiful smile.

In March of 2024, we got the news we had always known was coming. Kelsey’s heart was failing. The current situation was much worse than we had anticipated, as she was not a candidate for a transplant at that time, and she was in immediate need for an LVAD heart pump. The pump would repair her output pressures enough that she would be able to have the transplant. The LVAD would be her bridge for a heart transplant that they are now planning in the next couple of months.

Kelsey is in the process of completing the preliminary requirements and tests for transplant. She will take an education class on Nov. 5 at OSU. After a final review, she will then be put on the heart transplant list.

Kelsey is an extraordinary young woman, with the biggest heart, and so much love for life, family, and friends.  She is an amazing mother to a beautiful 5-year-old daughter. She is the best daughter, sister, granddaughter and auntie. She has found love with a man who treats her with so much kindness and respect. Kelsey has a beautiful life ahead of her. Moreover, the strength and determination to make it a long one as well. Please consider being a sponsor and/or joining us for a wonderful cause.