Mason was born in the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital with several heart defects, including coarctation of aorta and an overriding pulmonary artery. Mason’s tiny heart was having to work extraordinarily hard to get oxygen-rich blood through the aorta and the rest of his body.
Mason’s Stay in Hospital
At just 4 days old Mason underwent a balloon atrial septostomy procedure, to help improve the oxygenation of his blood. At 9 days old, little Mason had his first open heart surgery.
Mason’s mum Sara remembers how during his time in hospital, Mason was met by lots of students who used his extremely loud heart murmur to further learn about heart defects. She went on to explain that Mason has cyanosis due to low oxygen levels in his blood. “He normally has a blue tint to his skin, he struggles with weight gain and has had a lot of visits to and from the hospital throughout his short life.”
Ronald McDonald House Glasgow helps the family.
The family lived a long way from the Royal Hospital for Children, Glasgow. Too far for a daily commute.
Thankfully, there was a room available at Ronald McDonald House Glasgow and the family stayed for two months.
Sara told us: “As a family, we are completely grateful that we were able to stay somewhere so close to Mason – having somewhere so close by while he was in intensive care really helped so much. It’s an amazing Charity and without it we would have been lost“.
Precious time at home
Thankfully Mason managed to be well enough for a visit home for Christmas and his first birthday! Enough time to celebrate these special moments with his wider family.
Back to hospital
As is often the case for heart patients, Mason was back in hospital for a further operation. His bravery and the love and care from his family saw him through.
Little Mason will be in for further open heart surgery during his young life. Sara and her family may return to Ronald McDonald House Glasgow once more. “Knowing that the Ronald McDonald House is there to support the family it helps ease the stress a little.”
We wish Mason and his family all the very best for their continuing journey to full health.
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