THIAGO
Age 2 | Honduras
Life Saved in 2026
Born prematurely at 35 weeks in Chaloma, Honduras, Thiago was diagnosed with a heart murmur shortly after birth and later with an atrial septal defect, a hole between the upper chambers of his heart. This condition led to chronic illness and repeated hospitalizations. Without treatment, Thiago faced an extremely poor quality of life filled with limitations, and the possibility of not reaching his next birthday. Doctors determined surgery was his only chance for survival, but the procedure was not available in his home country.
Thanks to HeartGift, Thiago traveled to the U.S. for life-saving care, bringing both hope and fear for his mother, Katherine. On surgery day, she waited anxiously for hours, holding onto the belief that this would be the moment that changed her son’s life.
When the doctor finally came out of the operating room hours later and shared the good news that the surgery was a complete success, Katherine was overwhelmed with relief, gratitude, and joy. Her prayers had been answered.
Just three days later, Thiago was discharged - a true heart warrior! Since then, he has experienced a remarkable transformation, full of energy, dancing, and playing with his host family siblings. The gift of a healthy heart means Thiago’s future is filled with possibility, and many more birthdays to celebrate!
