Meet Alessandra

When Diana was 20 weeks pregnant with her first child, Alessandra, an anatomy scan brought unexpected news: her unborn baby had a heart condition. The revelation was terrifying for Diana and her husband, Luis, who were referred to Orlando Health Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women and Babies for specialized care.

Alessandra’s heart condition posed numerous risks, such as learning disabilities and limited physical activity. In preparation for her birth, the family met with Alessandra’s cardiologist and took a tour of the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Orlando Health Winnie Palmer, bringing them an increased sense of peace and safety knowing their daughter would be in capable hands.

When Alessandra was born, she was immediately taken to the NICU where she was diagnosed with pulmonary stenosis and an underdeveloped right atrium of the heart. At only 5 days old, she underwent heart surgery at The Heart Center at Orlando Health Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children. The surgeons worked meticulously to open her valve and place a stent, all in a heart just the size of a walnut.

Alessandra eventually went home, equipped with a pulse oximeter and medications to monitor her condition. Her parents were overjoyed and relieved to have their little girl with them, ready to face whatever the future held.

Today, Alessandra loves basketball, roller coasters, dancing and being a big sister. While she is a bit more cautious about her health than her peers, it has never hindered her spirit or stopped her from reaching her goals. Her parents’ trust in Orlando Health's specialized care has allowed Alessandra to live a full and adventurous life.