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Cora's Story

Already loving parents to their son Rowan, Erin and Patrick were thrilled to learn they were expecting their second child – a daughter to be named Cora Catherine, affectionately called Cici. While her pregnancy progressed smoothly. Complications from her first birth led Erin and her medical team to schedule a C-section at Orlando Health Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women and Babies, which went according to plan. Cora was born and she was everything her parents could ask for.

The next morning, routine cardiac tests revealed that Cora had a complex congenital heart defect (CHD). The condition prevented Cora’s heart from providing enough oxygenated blood through her body, including her brain. Without intervention, she would be at risk of brain and organ damage, potentially putting her life at risk. The news was a shock, and like any mother, Erin was immediately filled with worry about what this diagnosis meant for her newborn.

Cora was then transferred to The Heart Center at Orlando Health Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children. “That’s where the magic started,” said Erin, “The team there is just incredible. They took care of me and my husband just as much they did our baby girl.” Facing intense anxiety and uncertainty, Cora’s parents were comforted by her care team, who displayed deep compassion explaining the open-heart surgery Cora would need.

Her surgery was a success. Erin, both a mother and a former nurse, greatly appreciated the efficiency and expertise of her daughter’s care team following the operation. Remarkably, Cora recovered quickly and was discharged earlier than expected.

Cora is now 1½, and continues to hit all her milestones. She is a force of nature who loves her dog and keeping up with her older brother. Even though she requires ongoing follow-up appointments to maintain her long-term health, her family remains profoundly grateful for the hospital’s exceptional care and the compassionate team who supported them every step of the way.