Baby with HLHS Shows Resilience During Awareness Week

Michaela, a baby diagnosed with a rare heart condition, has undergone three surgeries but remains joyful and determined.

Published on Feb. 6, 2026

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This weekend marks the start of Congenital Heart Defect Awareness Week, and Michaela, a baby diagnosed with hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS), is inspiring others with her resilience. Michaela has already undergone three heart surgeries, the first when she was just three days old. Despite the challenges, her mother describes a baby full of joy and determination.

Why it matters

HLHS is a rare and serious congenital heart defect that affects about 1% of the population. Early detection through prenatal ultrasounds is critical, as it allows the medical team to be prepared to provide the appropriate interventions. While some children with HLHS will eventually need a heart transplant, life expectancy has improved with advancements in science and increased awareness.

The details

Doctors diagnosed Michaela with HLHS during a routine 20-week ultrasound. HLHS is an effect of the heart where the left side is too small to pump blood to the rest of the body. Without a prenatal diagnosis, babies with HLHS can become critically ill within hours or days of birth. Michaela's journey is far from over, as she is expected to undergo a fourth heart surgery in the coming years.

  • Michaela was diagnosed with HLHS during a routine 20-week ultrasound.
  • Michaela underwent her first heart surgery when she was just 3 days old.
  • Michaela is now almost 9 months old.

The players

Michaela

A baby diagnosed with hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS), a rare and serious congenital heart defect.

Laura Valencia

Michaela's mother, who describes her daughter as a 'warrior baby' full of joy and determination.

Dr. Maria Ossa Galvis

A pediatric cardiologist at Children's Health who explains the importance of early detection of HLHS through prenatal ultrasounds.

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What they’re saying

“Very, very strong. She is my warrior baby”

— Laura Valencia, Michaela's mother

“While some children will one day need a heart transplant, life expectancy has improved with science and awareness. This is common. We can diagnose prenatally. We can prepare medically -- and the families, you are not alone, we are here to support every step of the way.”

— Dr. Maria Ossa Galvis, Pediatric Cardiologist, Children's Health

What’s next

Michaela is expected to undergo a fourth heart surgery in the coming years as she continues to fight and thrive.

The takeaway

Michaela's story highlights the importance of early detection and medical advancements in treating congenital heart defects like HLHS. Her resilience and joy in the face of challenges inspire others and demonstrate the progress being made in supporting families affected by these conditions.