Another Caroline!

I met another Caroline today. She's 17 years old, and when she was born, she had the same heart surgery I did! She's really nice - she volunteers at Cedars now to tell all the babies and their parents that, even if you have a rough start, everything will work out. She is now a senior in high school, applying to colleges (her top choice is Yale, and I just know she'll be admitted! She's one smart cookie).

Caroline was also born at Cedars, and had the same surgery when she was only a few days old. She recovered, spent some time as a normal baby and toddler, and had her second surgery (the same one I will have) a few years later. She stopped by my room to tell my mommy and daddy not to worry, and that I would grow up to be a normal precocious kid, not remembering any of this. I think my parents felt better that I wouldn't have long-term effects as a result of my heart condition or the surgeries I need. I think it really helped that she told them that, the weekend before I met her, Caroline did a triathalon! What a rock star. I want to grow up to be just like her.

I'm glad I won't have to worry about limitations on my activity or about long-term effects. I sure like to be active, and it would really put a damper on my style if I had to restrict my play.