Emma Kate Pettis Heart Transplant

Update 9/09/2023: We fly back to Cincinatti, Ohio in October for Emma’s heart cath to fix collateral veins and she has several surgeries scheduled (g-tube placement because she’s still not eating or drinking much by mouth, ear tubes, and her tongue tie clipped).

Update 3/10/2023: Emma had the Glenn surgery. She still has half of a heart but now her left ventricle can pump blood not only to the rest of her body but now to her lungs too. We reached out for second opinions and Cincinatti Children’s Hospital and Texas Children’s Hospital both agreed that the Glenn surgery was the best route for her for now. They said we should avoid heart transplant for as long as possible but she will need one eventually.

Update 11/01/2022:

Cody and Emily received a phone call this morning that there is a heart that became available for baby Emma. We are so grateful that she has been given this priceless gift of a heart, and ask that everyone say a special prayer for them as they prepare her for surgery in the morning. Thank you so much to everyone for the support of baby Emma!

My baby sister, Emily and husband, Cody Pettis, are expecting their second baby girl, Emma Kate, due in July. 

Their sweet girl has been diagnosed with Hypoplastic Right Heart Syndrome (HRHS) and will require several heart surgeries, the first being immediately after she is born. Her most recent appointment with the Neonatal Cardiac Surgeon has shown even further complications potentially requiring a heart transplant. 

They will be delivering in Gainesville, Florida, with some of the best neonatal cardiac surgeons in the country. She will stay in Gainesville for approximately 3 weeks before and 4 weeks after delivery to ensure Emma's smooth delivery and recovery. 

While Emily works for the state of Florida and has medical insurance, it will not cover the deductibles, coinsurance, hotels (they are going to try to stay at the Ronald McDonald house but it’s not guaranteed), travel, and miscellaneous expenses. 

It would be such a blessing for her family to have the ability to focus on Emma's recovery solely. Most importantly, please keep Emma and her family in your prayers.

If you are more comfortable with Venmo, her username is: @Emily-Pettis