Team Braelon

Meet my 9 year old niece, Braelon.  

Braelon was born in 2004 with C.H.A.R.G.E Syndrome.  She has had to face many obstacles in her short life, including three heart surgeries.  She's getting ready to face her biggest obstacle so far; she will undergo a temporary valve replacement in preparation for a total heart transplant at Children's Hospital in St. Louis this month.  

Braelon is such a winner despite the challenges she has faced.  She has a wonderful spirit, a huge smile, and a bit of ornery side.  She loves spending time with her two sisters and cousins.  She enjoys playing on the trampoline and loves her video games.  She has participated in the Oklahoma Special Olympics for the past five years and has done well.  

The Children's Hospital of St. Louis is about six hours from where Braelon lives.  I've created this fundraiser to help my brother and his family, so that they can manage their responsibilities at home, while being able to spend quality time with Braelon during her surgery and recovery.  

I thank you for taking the time to learn more about Braelon.  Thank you in advance for your support and donations.  

06/19/2013 - Update

Braelon will leave on Sunday, 06/23/2013, for St. Louis.  She will undergo testing Monday-Wednesday, to determine where she is on the transplant list.  
Thanks for your support everyone!  I will keep you updated.   

07/11/2013 - Update
Braelon and her family will be heading back to St. Louis on 07/30/2013; surgery will be on 07/31/2013.  She has been added to the transplant list, but in the meantime she will undergo a valve replacement for the purpose of a temporary fix.  She is expected to be in St. Louis for two weeks.  

07/29/2013 - Update
Braelon and her family will be heading to St. Louis tonight to be ready for pre-op tomorrow.  She will have an open heart surgery, where they will construct her a new heart valve and get a pacemaker.  Please keep her in your thoughts.

08/08/2013- Update
Because of complications with her kidney, surgery was moved to 08/02/2013.  She underwent open heart surgery that day, getting a new mechanical valve that is supposed to last a lifetime.  She was given a pacemaker as well.  Less than a week later and she is up and playing and she looks fabulous!  Her colors and pressure are better than they ever have been and the doctor says she now has the heart of a normal 9 year old.  AND she is now off the transplant list!  She has done so well, that she gets to come home tomorrow; ONE WEEK after surgery!  She is such a fighter and I am so proud to call her my niece.  

Thank you to everyone for your support.  We love you all!!!