Healing Help-Anaya's Heart Journey

Dear friends and supporters,

My name is Lauren, and I’m a friend and fellow heart mom to Ashlee. Ashlee and I met earlier this year at work, and quickly discovered that we both have a child with Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome. Our shared experiences have brought us close, and we’ve become fast friends, supporting each other as we navigate this challenging journey together.

Ashlee's daughter, Anaya, is 15 years old and a brave heart warrior. Anaya has already faced more challenges in her life than most people could ever imagine. Born with Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome, a rare and severe heart condition, Anaya has endured multiple surgeries and medical interventions since she was a baby. Despite everything, she has shown an incredible will to live and an unshakable strength.

I am reaching out to you all today with a heavy heart for this family, but a hopeful spirit to ask for your support in Anaya’s ongoing fight. This year, Anaya’s heart started showing significant signs of failure, and her team of doctors at Dallas Children's Medical Center determined that it was time for another open-heart surgery. Due to ongoing heart issues, Anaya was admitted to the hospital in January, and in early February, underwent a life-saving procedure to place a Ventricular Assist Device (VAD) to help support her heart until she can receive a heart transplant. This surgery was complicated and critical, but it was her best chance for survival.

It is now April, and Anaya is still in the ICU working tirelessly to recover. The road has not been easy. She has faced multiple setbacks, each one more difficult than the last. Despite the challenges, Anaya has remained a fighter. It is inspiring!

Anaya has two other sisters, and Ashlee is working tirelessly to balance being at the hospital with caring for her daughters at home, and managing her job.

I am asking for your help as Anaya continues her journey. The medical bills and ongoing treatment are overwhelming, and while the road ahead is uncertain, I know that with your support, Anaya can continue to fight.

While Ashlee would love to be at the hospital with Anaya every day, she is unable to take more time off work due to having used up all of her leave. The financial strain of being away from work has become a heavy burden on the family, making it difficult for Ashlee to balance caring for Anaya with supporting her family’s needs.

Every donation, no matter how small, will go directly toward covering medical expenses, subsidize lost wages on the days that Ashlee needs to take off of work to be at the hospital, gas and other necessities for the family. Your support will help Anaya focus on healing and give Ashlee the peace of mind she needs to be there for her daughter during this incredibly challenging time.

Thank you for your generosity, your kindness, and your prayers. With your help, we can make a real difference in Anaya’s life.