Two weeks ago, a 6 month old patient from Matagalpa came to our Health Center in Nicaragua. He was diagnosed with an Obstructed Total Anomalous Pulmonary Venous Return (TAPVR), a congenital heart defect that affects the pulmonary veins. If left untreated, this disease will inevitably prove fatal. Unfortunately, our next mission in Nicaragua won’t be until this coming August, the baby simply could not wait. The local team, however, had never performed a surgical repair on a TAPVR before so they were very hesitant to try. With teamwork, support, and extraordinary bravery, they decided to go ahead with the surgery. There was no time to wait. We are exceedingly proud to say that the courageous team of doctors in Nicaragua successfully finished the repair. The baby boy, who was extubated last Tuesday, now has a healthy heart and is on the road to recovery towards a full and vibrant life. Even in the toughest conditions, and time running against them, these doctors gave him a chance of life and we are so honored that they are a part of Surgeons of Hope! #NoChildDeservesABrokenHeart
