Astania lives in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, and has three older brothers and one older sister. Her father works in construction. Her mother normally sells rice in the marketplace, but has stopped in order to care for Astania.
Astania was born with a cardiac condition called ventricular septal defect. A hole exists between the two lower chambers of her heart. Blood leaks through this hole without first passing through the lungs to obtain oxygen, leaving her severely fatigued.
In February of 2016, Astania underwent a procedure to stabilize her heart and allow it to grow larger, so that a complete repair could be attempted later with lower risk. Astania will undergo a second surgery soon to completely fix her heart defect.
First, Astania will undergo a full cardiac assessment on January 19. This assessment will include physical exams, labs, and an overnight stay at the hospital. Our medical partner, Haiti Cardiac Alliance, is requesting $1,500 to fund these procedures. Funding for Astania also covers the cost of medications and social support for her and her family. Gift of Life International is contributing $3,500 to cover additional costs associated with Astania’s surgical care.
“We are so happy,” said Astania’s mother, “that after this surgery Astania will be a normal healthy child!”