Meet Anna Liz, a true fighter whose story inspires us all. ??
Her incredible journey began even before she was born, when an abnormality was detected in her heart during a routine ultrasound by Shontell Thomas, MD, an OB/GYN at Ochsner Health Center – Kenner. From that moment, her family’s life was forever changed.
Not long after, Anna Liz’s mother, Rafaela, met pediatric cardiologist Jessica Mouledoux, MD, and her team at Ochsner Children’s Hospital. Dr. Mouledoux explained the best approach to caring for Anna Liz once she was born.
“I won’t deny it, I was scared,” Rafaela said. “My mind was flooded with countless thoughts. It was my first pregnancy, and I was suddenly faced with terms like “surgery,” “high-risk pregnancy,” and the greatest uncertainty of all: What would my baby’s arrival be like?”
Guided by the compassionate care of Dr. Thomas, Dr. Mouledoux, and pediatric cardiothoracic surgeon Benjamin Peeler, MD, and their dedicated staff, Anna Liz underwent a series of life-saving procedures and treatments shortly after she was born on Sept. 25, 2023.
“I was able to meet my little girl before they took her away to keep her under observation,” Rafaela said. “I heard her first cry, felt her tiny face against mine, and kissed her.”
Despite fears and uncertainties, Rafaela found strength through unwavering faith and the support of skilled doctors and nurses who went above and beyond to ensure Anna Liz had the best chance at life. After a challenging yet hope-filled 41-day NICU stay, Anna Liz emerged as a symbol of resilience and was discharged.
Rafaela would like to especially thank NICU nurse Grace Taffaro, RN, for her guidance, compassion and care during their time in the NICU.
And although Rafaela feared navigating life at home, the team at Ochsner Children’s reassured her that she and Anna Liz would be okay, and they could get through this.
“In that office, we found not just medical care but a new family,” Rafaela said. “Dr. Mouledoux, Dr. Megan, Jenna White, PA-C, Mia Lowe, PA-C, and Nurse Tracie each made our journey lighter and happier.”
On March 21, 2023, Anna Liz underwent heart surgery performed by Dr. Peeler. It went perfectly.
“I always say that I no longer admire superheroes from movies,” Rafaela said. “Because we met a real-life hero in Dr. Peeler and his fantastic team.”
Today, Anna Liz is thriving. She's strong, smart, and full of joy! Her story is a testament to the power of love, perseverance, and expert medical care. And while she still has follow-up appointments and will need to monitor her heart throughout her life, her family knows that she’s in the best hands at Ochsner Children’s. ??
Join us in celebrating Anna Liz and the amazing healthcare heroes who made all the difference in her life.
Happy #HeartMonth!
Learn more about pediatric cardiology at Ochsner Children’s here: https://lnkd.in/g2bDfYpV.