HAPPY NEW YEAR CAMERON

Tuesday September 4th, 2012


today my grandson started grade 1.  it's hard to believe!  it seems like just yesterday that he was making his entrance into this world.

the entrance that had his parents, and all of his extended family wondering what lay ahead for this little red-headed wonder.

Cameron was born with a congenital heart defect called Tetrology of Fallot.
TOF, as it is called, is actually a combination of four heart defects: pulmonary stenosis; a thickened right ventricle (ventricular hypertrophy); a hole between the lower chambers (ventricular septal defect) and an aorta that can receive blood from both the left and right ventricles, instead of draining just the left.  because deoxygenated (blue) blood can flow out to the body, children with this defect often appear bluish.  and Cameron certainly did.

within the hour, arrangements were made to fly him via helicopter to Sick Kids Hospital in Toronto.  he would spend 2 weeks there while the cardiologist and other doctors decided what his fate would be.  

it was decided that he would definitely need heart surgery, but for right now, he was fine to go home.  he would need medications, and he would be a little slower to hit the milestones than other children his age.  he also had basically no immune system so things like daycare and play dates had to be carefully planned, because even a cold could quickly turn into something requiring emergency care.  on top of this he was also diagnosed with Di George Syndrome, which is likely the underlying cause of the heart defect.

at 11 months old, Cameron underwent open heart surgery to repair his broken heart.  it was a very scary time, and many prayers were said for this little guy.

it has been 5 1/2 years since then, and Cameron is just a regular little boy.  he keeps me busy, and makes me laugh.  he plays baseball and lacrosse.  he starts hockey in just a few weeks.  he loves to play the guitar, and will be taking lessons.  he is a jokester, and can tell stories like no other!  he loves his little sister, but will fight with her just as fast as hug her!

and so, today, i am celebrating a New Year.  Cameron's new year at school.  he's in the big yard at recess, and already he loves his new teacher.  i'm sure the new will wear off, and i will hear how much he hates school, but for now i am celebrating!

i am so proud of him.  he has overcome obstacles, he is a happy go lucky guy, with a big heart, who makes friends every where he goes, and is always smiling!

Happy New Year Cameron!   

ready for his 1st day of Grade 1