Heart CENTER
Broghan
Diagnosed at 11 days,
Hypoplastic left-heart syndrome

Watching Broghan run and play ball with her dad, Thad, you’d never guess this active preschooler received a heart transplant at Texas Children’s Heart Center.

At just 11 days old, Broghan was diagnosed with hypoplastic left-heart syndrome, a condition in which the left side of the heart is underdeveloped leading to complication in the heart’s ability to pump oxygenated blood throughout the body. Without surgical treatment, the disease is fatal.

After several operations over the next two years near her home of Henrietta, Texas, doctors told Broghan’s parents she needed a heart transplant.

“Broghan’s heart function was so low that she would be out of breath if she walked across the living room,” said Miki, Broghan’s mom. “My husband and I started researching every pediatric hospital in the United States and felt that Texas Children’s Heart Center was the best place for Broghan.”

The family made the journey to Houston to see Dr. Jeffrey Dreyer, and after completing several tests he suggested the family move to Houston as soon as possible. They packed up and moved, and 16 days later Broghan received a new heart.

"When Broghan first came to us it was obvious she didn't feel well. Her underlying heart disease affected everything about her," said Dreyer. "Since her transplant, it's been fun to watch Broghan blossom into the happy, fun-loving little girl she was always meant to be."

“She is a totally different little girl. Her heart transplant has made such a difference in our lives,” said Miki. “We had so much support and encouragement from our family, community and church members in Henrietta, and the Heart Center staff.”

Miki says one important message has spread as a result of Broghan’s condition – the importance of organ donation and how organ transplants can save lives. That message also has been extended through her CarePage, a free patient Web page service provided by Texas Children’s.

Broghan is looking forward to being reunited with her 9-year-old sister, Rylee, who has been staying with grandparents to finish the school year. Meanwhile, she plays with her Barbies and reads about her favorite Sesame Street characters, Big Bird and Elmo.