Dillon Mayor Tally McColl signed a proclamation at Dillon Christian School on Friday in recognition of Congenital Heart Disease Awareness Month in honor of William Howard Carr III. Below is his story written by his mother, Emily…
William’s story is one of bravery and strength, inspiration, and hope. He was born in February of 2021, and within 15 minutes of entering this world, he was fighting for his life. In a whirlwind of emotions, multiple hospital transports and medical evaluations, he was soon diagnosed with a congenital heart defect called Pulmonary Atresia with Intact Ventricular Septum (PA/IVS). This means that the right side of his heart did not fully develop in utero. After a week in the cardiac ICU on medications supporting his heart, he had his first open heart surgery at a week old. This surgery and a subsequent month-long hospital stay were complicated by cardiac arrest, a prolonged period without oxygen to his brain, leading the Doctors to put him on ECMO, a form of cardiac life support. After meeting specific milestones while inpatient, he was discharged home until his second surgery in November of 2021 at 9 months of age. These surgeries were successful at rerouting his blood supply so that his body can get oxygenated blood.
Today William is 5 years old and full of energy and joy. He has a curious spirit and loves playing outside, exploring, and staying busy. Some of his favorite things include Legos, Spidey, board games, movie nights, building projects, and spending time with his family. He has a big smile and an even bigger personality, and he brings laughter wherever he goes.
This has been a long and hard journey for us, and we have learned to stop chasing the life we had imagined and embracing the beauty of his unexpected story. The Lord is still writing William’s story, and we know that there will be more procedures needed down the road, but for now, we focus on the present and enjoy every moment with our BRAVE and STRONG FIGHTER!
This brings me to something that has been on my heart for the past five years: the importance of having trained individuals and up-to-date AEDs readily available. In a cardiac emergency, these resources are vital and can save a life. Our goal moving forward is to advocate for every school, preschool, daycare, and park to have an AED on site and accessible. Time is critical, and immediate access to an AED can change the outcome.
We are incredibly grateful for the love and support our school community has shown us. Wearing red brings awareness to congenital heart disease, sparks important conversations, and builds understanding and support for heart warriors and their families.
We would like to extend sincere thanks to Mayor Tally McColl, Brent Hardy, Head of School at Dillon Christian School, and the administration at Dillon Christian Preschool and Childcare for their leadership and support in helping raise awareness. Their involvement and commitment to our community plays an important role in making this effort meaningful and impactful.
Thank you for supporting William and all the heart families, and for helping us raise awareness about congenital heart disease. Your support truly means so much to us.
Congenital Heart Disease Has Been Long and Hard Journey For Brave Five-Year-Old
