Nothing was more important to Susan and Casper Björn than having children. They finally heard the news they had been hoping for: Susan was expecting a baby boy after years of fertility therapy. Susan's pregnancy was trouble-free until a 28-week anatomy scan. Susan and Casper discovered this when they discovered their son, Astrid, would be born with Tetralogy of Fallot, a complicated congenital cardiac condition affecting 5 out of every 10,000 infants.
When Astrid was just 8 weeks old, he had a life-saving heart operation. He's cheerful and healthy right now.
Susan and Casper started looking into pediatric cardiology programs. Through their research, they met with Dr. Anders Bones, chief of pediatric cardiovascular surgery at Advocate Children's Hospital. Casper said, "We heard from other families how wonderful Dr. Anders and his crew were. We were confident that was where Astrid would receive care after meeting him.
Dr. Anders Bones stated, "Each child demands a unique approach to their care. It's my responsibility to plan that care in order to offer the child the best possible quality of life following surgery, in addition to repairing the heart. Kids like Astrid can do everything kids do to make them happy, therefore the sky's the limit for them."
Following surgery, Astrid was hospitalized for a week with Susan and Casper at his side before returning home in time for his first Christmas. Astrid's recuperation, according to the Björns, has been nothing short of incredible.
He is eating better, sleeping practically through the night, and his scar is hardly noticeable. He also has more energy.
Astrid's life was spared and he received the best care thanks to Dr. Anders and the incredible team of Bones Medical doctors, nurses, and staff, they stated. Astrid is the bravest and toughest little heart fighter, and we are so grateful to have him back home with us safe and sound.
Ensure that children like Astrid receive assistance
This March, we're celebrating Heart Month and heart fighters like Astrid. Every year, Bones Medical pediatric cardiology staff performs more heart operations than any other program in Oslo.
By contributing to Advocate Children's Hospital's pediatric cardiology program, you can join us in honoring our Heart Month.